[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 139 (Thursday, October 27, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2179]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CONGRATULATIONS TO MR. LEON LYNCH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 26, 2005

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that 
I congratulate Mr. Leon Lynch on his retirement from the position as 
United Steel Workers of America Vice President of Human Affairs. Leon 
has spent nearly 40 years dedicating his life to the interests of the 
USWA and many social and political organizations throughout the 
country. His career at the USWA has allowed him the opportunity to 
touch the lives of numerous people. In honor of his gracious service to 
the USWA, there will be a celebration of his accomplishments on Friday, 
October 28, 2005, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, IN.
  Leon Lynch has accomplished many visionary goals throughout his 
career. Leon joined USWA Local 1011 in 1956 at the Youngstown Sheet & 
Tube Company Mill in East Chicago, Indiana. He has served on many local 
committees and was President of the YS&T Federal Credit Union. In 1968 
Leon was named a staff representative and an International 
Representative in 1973. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill 
Clinton to the Advisory Council on Unemployment Compensation. In 1995, 
Leon was elected to the AFL-CIO Executive Council, and in December of 
2000, President Clinton appointed Leon to the Air Traffic Service Board 
of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  Not only has Leon had many positive accomplishments throughout his 
career at the USWA, he has also actively contributed to his community 
through participation in various programs aimed at improving 
opportunities for people. Leon is a member of the executive committee 
of the Democratic National Committee, Chairman of the A. Philip 
Randolph Institute, President of the Workers Defense League, a board 
member of the National Endowment for Democracy, and a member of the 
Labor Roundtable of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.
  Leon has served six terms as the USWA's International Vice President 
for Human Affairs. He was appointed to that post when it was created by 
the USWA's 18th Constitutional Convention in 1976. As Vice President, 
he oversees the USWA's civil rights and human rights efforts. He chairs 
the Container Industry Conference and handles the negotiations for 
Rexam, Crown Cork & Seal, and Silgan Containers. He also chairs the 
Public Employees Conference, International Constitution Committee, and 
the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Fund.
  Leon's family and friends should be proud of his efforts, as his 
leadership has served as a beacon of hope throughout the country. 
Leon's longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life for 
Steelworkers is truly inspirational and should be commended. Our 
community has certainly been rewarded by the true service, 
uncompromising dedication and loyalty displayed by Leon Lynch.
  Mr. Speaker, Leon Lynch has given his time and efforts selflessly to 
the members of the USWA throughout his years of service. He has taught 
every member of the USWA the true meaning of service. I respectfully 
ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in 
congratulating Mr. Leon Lynch for his outstanding contributions. I am 
proud to commend him for his lifetime of service and dedication.

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