[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 40 (Thursday, March 18, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E414-E415]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF FRED E. ALLEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 18, 2010

  Mr. HALL of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
accomplishments of a man who has dedicated his life to service and a 
greater cause, Fred E. Allen of Mt. Pleasant, TX.

[[Page E415]]

  Mr. Allen has been an outstanding citizen and patriot throughout his 
life. Much of his energy has been directed through the noble 
organization of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, which has played 
an important role in the history of this nation since its founding. 
Many influential Americans have been members of the Masons, including 
Presidents, Members of Congress, Justices, and Governors, and their 
ranks have included scientists, engineers, doctors, lawyers, 
entertainers, clergy, entrepreneurs, businessmen, and pioneers--
basically all walks of life.
  In October of 2009 Mr. Allen was honored with The Grand Cross by the 
Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite. This 
is the highest individual honor that The Supreme Council bestows. It is 
a rare honorary degree that is bestowed on Thirty-third Degree Masons, 
and is awarded only for the most exceptional and extraordinary 
services. Mr. Allen is one of those exceptional Masons, a man who, in 
the words of the philosopher Jeremy Benson, sought ``the greatest good 
for the greatest number.''
  It is a privilege to pay tribute to such an honorable and devoted 
citizen in the Fourth Congressional District of Texas, and I ask my 
colleagues to join me today in recognition of this great American, Fred 
Allen.

                          ____________________