[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 149 (Thursday, October 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2548]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING MICHAEL LOUIS 
                               VonBEHREN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES P. McGOVERN

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 15, 2009

  Mr. McGOVERN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the late 
Michael Louis VonBehren of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. At Michael's 
young age he already symbolized what we all hope to be. He actively 
exhibited enthusiasm for academics, for community service and for the 
Democratic Party. In acknowledgement of his commitment and dedication 
to the Shrewsbury Democratic Town Committee, this year's annual Eleanor 
Roosevelt Humanitarian Youth Award is dedicated in his memory.
  Michael VonBehren was an engaging young man who loved the democratic 
process. Michael was a student at Shrewsbury High School where he was 
involved in clubs such as Young Democrats, Political Action Group, and 
Model U.N. Although he was involved in various clubs and organizations, 
he still found the time to serve his community. Michael was a caring 
and kind young man who loved to help those that were less fortunate. He 
read to homeless children at a local shelter and was a talented video 
producer at his high school.
  Michael VonBehren was one of those rare teenagers that crossed normal 
boundaries and surrounded himself with those that shared his interests 
and beliefs whether they were his peers or a fellow volunteer on the 
campaign trail. There is no way of knowing what Michael would have done 
in the future. All that is sure is that he would have made a difference 
in our world. Michael was an exemplary student and citizen who showed 
others kindness and enthusiasm everyday of his life.
  Michael's unfaltering commitment to fairness and justice and his 
dedication to public service greatly benefitted our community. In 
tribute to his outstanding service to the community of Shrewsbury, I am 
proud to honor the memory of Michael Louis VonBehren with the 
dedication of the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Youth Award to him. I 
know all my colleagues will join me in paying tribute to him today.

                          ____________________