[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 59 (Monday, April 26, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E645]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    IN HONOR OF THOMAS J. VANCE, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN H. ADLER

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 26, 2010

  Mr. ADLER of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, I rise today to take a moment 
to remember the legacy of TSgt Thomas J. Vance, Sr., who passed away 
last year following a courageous battle with cancer. Sergeant Vance 
honorably served the people of our Nation and my home State of New 
Jersey in the United States for a combined 51 years of service with the 
Air Force.
  Born in Philadelphia, PA, Technical Sergeant Vance attended Bartram 
High School. After he graduated he enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 
1947. Sergeant Vance fought both in the Korea and Vietnam Wars, and 
served at nine different bases including McGuire Air Force Base, which 
is located in New Jersey's Third Congressional District. During his 20 
years of active duty in the service, he was awarded the Air Force 
Longevity Service Award, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct 
Medal, Outstanding Unit Award, Korean Service Medal and the U.N. 
Service Medal.
  In 1978, Technical Sergeant Vance became an original member of the 
Retiree Affairs Office at McGuire Air Force Base, where he became an 
expert on an array of military family issues. During his 31 years of 
service in this role, he served countless hours assisting our military 
families.
  Technical Sergeant Vance is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, 
Elsie, whom he met while serving at Langley Air Base and his three 
children, Thomas Jr., Sandra, and Richard.
  In recognition of his life and service to our Nation, I ask that the 
House of Representatives and all Americans join me to honor the legacy 
of TSgt Thomas J. Vance, Sr.

                          ____________________