[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 76 (Thursday, May 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E873]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO HELEN G. JACOB ON HER 90TH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 2008

  Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 90th 
birthday of Helen G. Jacob, an inspirational woman who fought for our 
country in WW II and who continues to fight on behalf of her fellow 
veterans every day. Helen is a brilliant example of commitment and 
devotion to one's community and fellow man.
  The daughter of Frank and Ellen Cooley, Helen was born on May 16, 
1918 in Buffalo, New York where she and her siblings resided on 
Crescent Avenue. Helen attended St. Mark's School and Mount St. 
Joseph's High School.
  Helen, against her mother's wishes, joined the army in 1942 and was 
assigned to the 29th Traffic Regiment Division. Landing in Paris six 
days after the liberation, Helen performed tasks critical to moving 
troops throughout Europe.
  Upon her return to Buffalo, Helen was denied membership in both the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. In what has become 
her trademark, Helen pioneered and founded the Ereico Women's Post 
#1586.
  In 1984, Helen began volunteering as the Women's Veteran Coordinator, 
amassing more than 12,000 hours of dedicated service. In 1996, the 
Helen G. Jacob Wellness Clinic opened in the VA Medical Center in 
Buffalo, New York in recognition of her tireless advocacy for quality 
services within the VA Western NY Healthcare System. By Helen's example 
and lifelong work, we are also reminded of the obligation to keep the 
promises made by our government to our veterans.
  Justifiably and deservedly, Helen has been honored over the years. 
These awards include American Legion's Legionnaire of the Year; The 
Found Women Award from Women Focus of Western New York; Buffalo 
Ambassador from the Greater Buffalo Convention and Visitors Bureau; 
Award of Excellence from Every Women's Opportunity Center; the United 
Way and J.C. Penny's Golden Rule Award; and the Susan B. Anthony Award.
  Helen continues to respond to calls for service including my request 
that she serve on the military academy review panel for the applicants 
in the 27th District. She remains an active member of over 20 different 
organizations. Helen is also a Eucharistic Minister at St. Mark's 
Church.
  Her two children, Patricia and Bill, and grandchildren, Tom, 
Michelle, Christine, Eric, Adam, and Kevin, will join with the family 
of veterans and friends on May 9th at the Troop I Hamlin House to 
celebrate Helen's 90 years of life, love, and laughter.
  Helen is a friend to all and a fighter for veterans. Madam Speaker, I 
rise to congratulate Helen G. Jacob on the occasion of her 90th 
birthday and to thank her for her service and continuing commitment to 
our country.

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