[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6276-S6277]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       BILL AND ROSE MARY MOONEY BROOKS' 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I would like to recognize the 60th 
anniversary of Bill and Rose Mary Mooney Brooks on July 6, 2006. Their 
life together truly represents the American ideal. They met when Bill, 
an Army captain, took a weekend leave, with his fellow officer and best 
buddy Lewis Mooney. Lew introduced Bill to his younger sister Rose Mary 
that weekend in Philadelphia. Shortly after the war ended, they were 
married and Rose Mary and Bill returned to his home State where they 
made their home in Sioux Falls, SD. There they built a construction 
business and a family. Quite a family in fact, their first child and 
only daughter Barbara has shared my life for the last 37 years. Barbara 
was followed by six sons, Theodore, Robert, Ronald, Raymond, Richard, 
and Stephen.
  During their years together, their business, Brooks Construction, and 
later Brooks Concrete, was always known for quality work but, most 
importantly, for integrity. Bill was also a founding officer of the 
South Dakota Air National Guard where he served until he retired as a 
lieutenant colonel. Then, as now, guard service required sacrifice. 
During the Korean war, Bill had to leave his new business and move his 
young family to Duluth, MN, where, once again, he served his country.
  They were active members and leaders in their church where Rose Mary 
enjoyed singing in the choir. Her Irish sensibilities and intelligence 
gave her grace and wit in raising the children. They were strong 
supporters of whatever their seven children chose to participate. 
Whether it was a starring role on the football team, an all-day 
wrestling meet, a lead in a musical, or one line in a class play, Bill 
and Rose Mary were in the stands. Their children will tell you that 
they were and are wonderful parents.

[[Page S6277]]

  There are many American ideals that apply to Bill and Rose Mary. 
Their love story truly captures the American dream and I am proud to be 
part of their family, and honored to offer my congratulations on their 
60th anniversary.

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