[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 107 (Thursday, June 26, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1386]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING MONSIGNOR RICHARD O'KEEFFE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RAUL M. GRIJALVA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 26, 2008

  Mr. GRIJALVA. Madam Speaker, I would like to submit the following 
statement for the Record. The presentation was given by Colonel John 
Bullington, Commander with U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, in 
recognition of Monsignor Richard O'Keeffe's work in the community.

            Presentation to Msgr. O'Keeffe on June 13, 2008

  (By Col. John Bullington, Commander, U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground)

       I'd like to take a few moments to extend a very sincere 
     tribute to a man who is a true treasure to those of us at 
     YPG--Monsignor Richard O'Keeffe.
       Since June 1978, thirty years ago this month, the 
     Monsignor, a man of great integrity, energy and sincerity, 
     has faithfully served YPG as Catholic chaplain. He drove from 
     town most Sundays to celebrate mass at the post chapel and is 
     here at least one weekday each week to make visits, perform 
     counseling, conduct baptisms, and perform other duties 
     carried out by a chaplain. He was instrumental in expanding 
     our religious education program and has been an inspiration 
     to all with whom he's come in contact.
       I might also mention that Monsignor O'Keeffe is one of the 
     most influential cheerleaders for YPG in the community. He 
     maintains a network of contacts from both political parties, 
     and his advice is always right on the mark. I personally 
     value his input and welcome what he has to say. He represents 
     a rare combination of judgment, fidelity to truth, 
     intellectual force, and clarity of interpretation.
       For thirty years, Monsignor O'Keeffe has been there without 
     fail for the people of YPG--of any faith. We could have asked 
     for no better friend, for no better man. Ireland's loss was 
     definitely our gain.

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