[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 89 (Tuesday, July 11, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO JUNE ALLYSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 2006

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay honor to June Allyson, an 
actress and spokeswoman who represented America's image of the ideal 
sweetheart during her film career in the 1940's and 50's. In addition 
to her work as an entertainer, Allyson vocally advocated the importance 
of research concerning various senior health issues.
  Born Eleanor Geisman in 1917, she was raised in the Bronx by her 
mother, who worked two jobs to support her family. At age 8, a tree 
branch fell on Geisman while she was bicycling, breaking several bones. 
She was confined to a wheelchair and doctors said she would never walk 
again. Defying the odds, she fought to regain her health through months 
of therapy and eventually achieved a full recovery.
  Finding her inspiration in Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, Geisman 
auditioned for the Broadway show ``Sing out the News.'' The director 
not only offered her a part, but gave her a stage name as well: June 
Allyson. Allyson went on to dance in several musicals, including ``Very 
Warm for May'' and ``Higher and Higher.'' Her performance in the 1941's 
``Best Foot Forward'' led to her feature film debut by reprising her 
role in the MGM musical, which starred Lucille Ball. Allyson's film 
career consisted mainly of playing the wife of many of Hollywood's 
leading men, including James Stewart and Van Johnson. Her sunny 
disposition and youthful optimism particularly resonated with U.S. 
servicemen overseas, making her an icon for the ``ideal girl'' to bring 
home to Mom.
  Later in life Allyson worked to raise awareness concerning urological 
and gynecological diseases in seniors. In appreciation of her efforts, 
the June Allyson Foundation was formed in partnership with the American 
Urogynecologic Society as a non-profit research and education 
foundation. Allyson was also recognized in 1988 when President Reagan 
appointed her to the Federal Council on Aging, a position she remained 
extremely proud of for the rest of her life.
  June Allyson is a wonderful example of an icon that could both 
entertain and educate the American people. Her contribution to the film 
industry will not soon be forgotten, and her devotion to the cause of 
senior health issues will sorely be missed.

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