[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 150 (Thursday, October 4, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2068]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING RALPH W. STURGES, MOHEGAN INDIAN CHIEF

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 4, 2007

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of 
Mohegan Indian Chief, Ralph W. Sturges. Chief Sturges died on September 
30, 2007.
  Chief Sturges was a renaissance man whose commitment to community and 
Nation knew no bounds. In 1938, following the devastation of the New 
England Hurricane, Chief Sturges contributed to cleanup and relief 
efforts in eastern Connecticut under the Civilian Conservation Corps 
(CCC). After his work in the CCC, Chief Sturges joined the Army's 
intelligence division, serving in World War II in New Guinea and the 
Philippines, ultimately earning a bronze star for his service. In 
subsequent years, he became the Director of Public Relations for New 
England divisions of the Salvation Army and a board member for the 
Directors for Connecticut Hospice.
  In 1992, prior to federal recognition of the Mohegan Nation, he was 
elected ``Chief for Life'', which he dutifully filled until his passing 
on September 30, 2007. In 1994, his legacy was solidified with the 
federal recognition of the Mohegan Nation, a cause that he inherited 
from his mother and tirelessly saw through to fruition. In 1996, Chief 
Sturges secured development plans for the Mohegan Sun, which is now one 
of the world's largest and most successful casinos. At every step of 
the way, Chief Sturges was careful to reach out to his community and 
neighbors making the success of Mohegan Sun a harmonious addition to 
southeastern Connecticut.
  In addition to his military accolades, philanthropy work, business 
endeavors, and leadership roles, Chief Sturges was a notable artist. 
His sculptures have graced the halls of the Connecticut State Capitol, 
Montville High School, and the Mohegan Sun.
  While his passing brings sadness to the Connecticut community, his 
legacy and contributions will be remembered for generations to come. I 
ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents to honor his life 
and offer condolences to his family.

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