[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 88 (Tuesday, June 28, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1378]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  IN HONOR OF ROLAND G. DOWNING, PH.D.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 28, 2005

  Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to pay tribute to the newly elected President General of the National 
Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), Roland G. 
Downing, Ph.D. Following in the footsteps of Howard F. Horne, Dr. 
Downing is the second Delawarean to lead the SAR in the past 5 years.
  While growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, Roland was active inside 
and outside of the classroom, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, 
playing for his high school football team, and serving as the President 
of the student body. This commitment to excellence would continue at 
Vanderbilt University, where Roland earned a degree in organic 
chemistry.
  After graduation, Roland would embark on a successful career with the 
Delaware-based DuPont Company, culminating in a 38-year tenure as 
Research Manager, Product Manager and Market Development Manager. 
During this time, Roland would take a brief hiatus to further his 
education, earning a PhD in organic chemistry. In addition to being a 
successful scientist, Dr. Downing served in the United States Naval 
Reserve for over 20 years, including a 3-year deployment at sea during 
the Korean War.
  Prior to his election as President General, Dr. Downing held numerous 
other positions within the SAR, including: Secretary General, Treasurer 
General, Historian General, Regional Vice-President, and membership on 
the Executive Committee. Joining him in celebrating this new position 
are his lovely wife Norma, a son, two daughters, and eight 
grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing, I congratulate the SAR on their exceptional 
choice of Dr. Roland G. Downing as President General. He is an 
exemplary citizen, devoted family man, and most of all, a proud 
American.

                          ____________________