[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 135 (Saturday, November 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2112]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING FRANK JOHNSON ON HIS EIGHTIETH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 19, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to pay tribute to an outstanding member of the community of Naugatuck, 
Connecticut, Franklin Johnson. Frank recently celebrated his eightieth 
birthday and it is for that milestone that I stand today to extend to 
him my sincere congratulations.
  It is not often that you find an individual who dedicates a lifetime 
of professional and volunteer service to his community. It is 
individuals such as these that make a real difference in the lives of 
others. Throughout his lifetime, Frank has been just this kind of 
citizen. Born and raised in the Borough of Naugatuck, he has always 
demonstrated a unique dedication to public service--especially to our 
veterans and young people.
  After graduating from high school, Frank enlisted in the Army serving 
his nation in the D-Day invasion, the liberation of Paris, and the 
Battle of the Bulge. His dedication to the men and women of America's 
armed services have never wavered. For over fifty years, Frank has 
ensured that their dedication--especially those who made the ultimate 
sacrifice--is remembered and honored with a ceremony which is held at 
Naugatuck High School the Friday before Memorial Day. Frank has also 
served as the Post Commander of American Legion Post 17 and, for the 
last sixteen years, as the Chairman of the Naugatuck Veterans Council, 
has been responsible for the organization and production of the 
Naugatuck Memorial Day Parade. Through all of his outstanding work, 
Frank has ensured that the service and courage of our veterans as well 
as that of the brave men and women who currently serve in our nation's 
armed forces, is remembered with the respect and dignity they so richly 
deserve.
  I have often spoke of our nation's need for talented, creative 
individuals willing to help our children learn and grow. In the course 
of his thirty-eight year career at Naugatuck High School as a teacher, 
guidance counselor, and administrator, Frank was just that kind of 
educator. His professional life was dedicated to helping our young 
people access and obtain the tools and skills they would need as they 
pursued their own dreams.
  This year, as he celebrates his eightieth birthday, Frank can reflect 
on his lifetime of invaluable contributions with pride. We are 
fortunate indeed to have such a dedicated individual whose generosity 
and compassion has touched the lives of so many. I am proud to stand 
today to join his wife, Jeanne, his children, grandchildren, family, 
friends, and the Naugatuck community in wishing Franklin Johnson the 
very best as he celebrates his eightieth year. He has left an indelible 
mark on this community and a legacy which is sure to inspire others for 
generations to come. Frank Johnson is a true community treasure. HAPPY 
BIRTHDAY FRANK!

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