[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 87 (Thursday, June 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING JACK MICHAELS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PARALYZED VETERANS OF 
                       AMERICA, NORTHWEST CHAPTER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 29, 2006

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment 
to honor an extraordinary individual from my district who is a true 
American hero, Jack Michaels. He is an ordinary man with an 
extraordinary story. Unless you are a friend or a family member you may 
not recognize his face, or have ever heard his name. Indeed, there are 
millions of Americans like him--Americans who have sacrificed so much 
for our country and do not receive nearly enough recognition in return 
for their service. Let me introduce you to one of many forgotten 
warriors.
  Jack Michaels flew an assault helicopter in Vietnam that was shot 
down in 1970. His copilot was killed and Jack was left in a wheelchair 
for life. For his sacrifice he received a Distinguished Flying Cross, 
Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart.
  From that point on, he became determined to advocate for the rights 
of disabled veterans. His own experiences inspired him to help launch 
the Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Vets of America. Though it began 
with only 10 members, it has grown into a strong organization with over 
400 members. The national PVA director calls him the backbone and 
guiding light of the chapter. Through his support, the Northwest 
Chapter has evolved into a strong advocate for veterans.
  To illustrate his commitment, before the Northwest Chapter was even a 
part of the national PVA, he was instrumental in lobbying with the 
Washington Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities to get the King 
County Metro bus system to buy buses that would allow people in 
wheelchairs to ride. Before his work on this issue, no bus in King 
County was equipped to take a person in a wheelchair. This change has 
dramatically improved the lives of many by giving them the power of 
mobility. Impressively, Washington State's version of the Americans 
with Disabilities Act is actually stronger than the Federal version as 
a result of Jack's efforts. Jack has also worked tirelessly on a range 
of other issues affecting disabled veterans.
  Now, 30 years after Jack Michaels helped launch the Northwest Chapter 
of the PVA, Jack is retiring as the chapter's executive director. 
Despite his upcoming retirement, he still plans to continue his battle 
for disabled veterans and will continue his work as a volunteer for the 
chapter he has served for so many years. Jack Michaels made a sacrifice 
for his country, and in the following years has continued to give still 
more. Over the years he has made his local and national community a 
better place by fighting for the rights of his fellow veterans. He 
deserves our utmost respect, admiration, and commendation for his 
achievements. I thank him for continuing to fight for liberty at home, 
and for volunteering to improve daily life for his fellow veterans, 
knowing all too well the sacrifices they have made.

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