[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 84 (Monday, June 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATING DARREL JACOBS ON BEING RECOGNIZED AS THE 2009 VOLUNTEER 
           OF THE YEAR BY THE PHOENIX VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 8, 2009

  Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a Vietnam 
veteran's service to his fellow veterans while battling his own chronic 
illness. This year, the Phoenix VA Health Care Systems awarded Darrel 
Jacobs the 2009 Volunteer of the Year award. This honor recognizes the 
remarkable way in which Darrel has given back to the same hospital that 
has provided him with excellent care since 1972.
  Darrell, a former postal clerk for the U.S. Army from 1967-1971, 
spends 24 hours a week volunteering at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical 
Center in Phoenix. Since he has had diabetes for 37 years and even 
underwent open-heart surgery at the Phoenix VA Medical Center about 
seven years ago, Jacobs is able to provide encouragement and assistance 
to his patients on a personal level.
  Darrell provides support for patients in a multitude of ways, 
specializing in care for veterans with diabetes and heart disease. On 
days when the diabetes education class is held at the hospital, Darrell 
arrives at 6:30 a.m. to set everything up, assists veterans with their 
glucose tests, and is always the last one to leave once the class is 
over. He also coordinates lunches from the dietary department, works in 
the cardiology department, and even trains other volunteers.
  I commend him for his energetic efforts in giving selflessly to other 
vets combating disease. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing 
Darrel Jacobs for his service to our country and his continued 
dedication to America's veterans.

                          ____________________