[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 4 (Tuesday, January 9, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E43]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF THE HONORABLE WILLIAM T. McLAUGLIN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 9, 2007

  Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise 
today to recognize the 90th birthday of The Honorable William T. 
McLaughlin, former mayor of Wilmington. Bill McLaughlin has led an 
extraordinary life, filled with exceptional acts of public service, as 
well as a strong dedication to my home State of Delaware. He certainly 
has packed a great deal of accomplishment into his 90 years.
  During World War II, Bill flew 50 combat missions in the South 
Pacific as a tail gunner and radioman. After the war, Bill went to 
night school under the G.I. Bill and spent his career with the DuPont 
Company. He spent 58 years married to the late Mary McLaughlin, with 
whom he raised two fine sons. Bill did not begin his political career 
until 1964, when he was elected to the city council in an upset 
victory. After serving as a strong advocate for progressive causes on 
the council, he was elected as mayor in 1976, and served the city from 
1977-1984. I had the privilege of serving as Lieutenant Governor of 
Delaware during his second term as mayor and enjoyed working with him 
on many different issues.
  The McLaughlin years were prosperous ones for both the city of 
Wilmington and the State of Delaware. Together with Governor Pete 
duPont, Bill helped to enact the Financial Center Development Act which 
brought Delaware to the forefront of the banking industry. Mayor 
McLaughlin worked tirelessly to protect jobs, attract new employers, 
and grow the local economy.
  Not only was the economy successful during Bill McLaughlin's time, 
but crime rates declined, city and water systems were improved, and 
low-income families had increased access to housing. While a tireless 
worker for the city of Wilmington, the mayor should also be remembered 
for his sense of humor. One St. Patrick's Day, Mayor McLaughlin made 
his way down King Street in a green leprechaun costume.
  Bill continues to serve as a dignified leader in countless service 
organizations. I commend him for a life of service and thank him for 
his tireless dedication to Delaware. I am proud to call him a friend.

                          ____________________