[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 114 (Tuesday, September 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1662]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


  HONORING RALPH THEODORE BROWN, SR. ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 21, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to congratulate Detective Ralph Theodore Brown, Sr. as he retires after 
twenty-seven years of dedicated service to the Police Department of the 
City of West Haven, Connecticut. Through his professional career and 
volunteer service, Teddy has shown a unique commitment to his 
community.
  Returning to West Haven in 1962 from four years of service as a 
Special Services Airman in the United States Air Force, Teddy settled 
with this wife, Carroll to raise their three sons. Joining the West 
Haven Police Department as a patrol officer in 1977, Teddy quickly 
moved through the ranks and was named Detective just three years later. 
During his career with the Department, Teddy has worked in the Youth 
Division and served with the Statewide Narcotics Task Force as an 
undercover agent. Too often, we overlook the incredible work of our 
local law enforcement officers. These are the men and women who 
dedicate themselves to protecting our families and neighborhoods. 
Teddy's own career has been recognized with a myriad of commendations 
and awards including the Medal of Merit. The West Haven community has 
certainly been fortunate to have such a dedicated individual working 
diligently on their behalf.
  In addition to his professional contributions, Teddy has long been an 
avid volunteer in his community. From coaching ``Biddy Basketball'' to 
serving as a Commissioner for the West Haven Parks & Recreation 
Department, he has been a friend and mentor to hundreds of our young 
people. Teddy, who has served as a Deacon for over fifteen years, has 
also been an active member of the Dixwell Congregational United Church 
of Christ for over three decades. In addition to these activities, 
Teddy is also a founding Member of the West Haven Black Coalition, 
member of the West Haven Race Relations Committee, and a member of the 
NAACP--three organizations which have worked to build on the diversity 
of West Haven and create a stronger community.
  Through all of his good work, Teddy has touched the lives of many. 
His dedicated service and unparalleled commitment to enriching his 
community has left an indelible mark which will serve as an inspiration 
to others. For his many contributions--both professional and 
volunteer--to our community, I am proud to stand today and join his 
wife, Carroll; sons, Teddy, Jr., Erik, and Shawn; grandchildren, Shane 
and Camryn; as well as the many family, friends and colleagues who have 
gathered to congratulate and extend my sincere thanks and appreciation 
to Ralph Theodore Brown, Sr. as he celebrates his retirement. My very 
best wishes for many more years of health and happiness.

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