[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 149 (Thursday, September 18, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S9017]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING TOMMY L. HARBOUR

 Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, today I honor Tommy L. 
Harbour, a fellow West Virginian from Milton. He is a shining example 
of the self sacrifice and willingness to serve that is an important 
part of the culture of West Virginia. I am privileged to represent him 
and share his story with you today.
  Tommy Harbour proudly served his country during World War II. He 
joined the Coast Guard on July 5, 1943, where he was assigned to the 
USS Bayfield and served on the landing craft PA33-4. During the 
invasion of Normandy, Mr. Harbour's landing craft first helped 
reinforce Omaha Beach with soldiers before making several more landings 
on Utah Beach under constant gunfire from several fortified German 
positions. After the European campaign was over, Tommy continued to 
serve in the Pacific Theater. He and his fellow soldiers played crucial 
roles in the invasion of Iwo Jima and the invasion of Okinawa in 1945.
  Following the war, Tommy Harbour was honorably discharged on May 27, 
1946, when he returned home to Milton, WV. Tommy went on to once again 
answer the call of duty, serving as the mayor of Milton for 17 years. 
During his time as mayor, Tommy showed strong commitment to helping 
those he served. Mr. Harbour had a reputation for thoroughly examining 
the issues before him and ensuring the best possible course of action 
was taken. As mayor, Tommy was approachable and always willing to 
listen to people's thoughts and concerns. The enhancements he helped 
orchestrate, such as flood protection and improving the police 
department, will be attributes to Milton for years to come.
  Tommy Harbour is an outstanding American and a true West Virginian. 
He is a perfect model of the impact one man can have. Mr. Harbour has 
lived a life of service, always giving and never asking for anything in 
return. This story of his bravery and willingness to serve his 
community is a great example of the accomplishments we are all capable 
of and I hope it has inspired my fellow colleagues and individuals 
nationwide.

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