[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 53 (Thursday, April 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E560]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING MISS OLA HITT ON HER 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                        HON. J. GRESHAM BARRETT

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 15, 2010

  Mr. BARRETT of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to enter 
into the Congressional Record a few statements about Miss Ola Hitt, who 
is celebrating her 100th birthday this month. Miss Hitt is truly a 
special woman. Every day, motorists who drive down Whiskey Road in 
Aiken, South Carolina will pass by Ola Hitt Lane. Visitors to the city 
may not know why a street was named for Miss Hitt, but many of the 
residents could quickly inform them. Miss Ola, as she is affectionately 
known by her friends, has been a beloved figure in her small southern 
city for decades.
  Miss Ola is an American patriot who has opened her home and her heart 
to serve the veteran community for many years. In 1960, Miss Ola was 
asked if disabled veterans who could live independently could share her 
large Chesterfield Street home with her. She never hesitated, and her 
house became a home to dozens of returning veterans who had no-where 
else to lay their heads. Her ``boys'', as she called them, always found 
a welcome mat at her front door. She not only prepared hot meals and 
provided comfortable rooms for them but also accompanied them to 
doctor's appointments. She even planned and took them on vacations. For 
33 years, Miss Ola served her ``boys'' who had so valiantly served our 
great country.
  Obviously, generosity epitomizes Miss Ola's life. She has always been 
quick to gather up donations to help children, veterans and anyone else 
who is in need. Miss Ola has also been known to draft others to assist 
her in her endeavors. Because no one says ``no'' to Miss Ola, she has 
been able to draw others into her many charities.
  I could go on for hours about what Miss Ola means to her community 
and to her many friends. Her life has truly been one of giving and 
loving. I am proud to have this opportunity to wish her a happy 100th 
birthday and to thank her for spending her life serving others. God 
bless you, Miss Ola.

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