[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 123 (Tuesday, September 14, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1583-E1584]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        THOMAS BURKE RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 14, 2010

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand 
before you to honor Mr. Thomas A. Burke on his retirement from his 
position as Business Representative for the Chicago Pipe Fitters. Tom, 
a member of Pipe Fitters Local #597 for many years, has made the 
interests of his fellow tradesmen his top priority. For his devotion 
and lifetime of service to the Pipe Fitters, Tom was honored at a 
retirement dinner that took place Saturday, August 21, 2010.
  Tom Burke has been a proud member of Local #597 since he began his 
apprenticeship 44 years ago. From the moment Tom began his 
apprenticeship, he received the unmarked title of second generation 
pipe fitter, following his father along with his brother, Dennis. Since 
his apprenticeship, Tom has held many positions, including journeyman, 
foreman, and superintendant. While working as a skilled and dedicated 
pipe fitter, Tom assumed numerous roles of leadership. He served for 
one term as a member of the Federation of Labor Board, joining an 
honorable group that stands up for working men and women, and giving 
his time to an organization that creates a united voice for Chicago's 
labor movement. He went on from there to serve one term on the 
Examining Board, dedicating his time and expertise in assisting with 
apprentice entrance examinations. His leadership roles continued as Tom 
served two plus terms on the Executive Board that made important 
decisions on various union matters. In such a prestigious position, Tom 
was able to display his well developed leadership skills, All of this 
past experience culminated in Tom's election to the office of Business 
Representative in 1998. He held this honorable office until his 
retirement in 2010.
  Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its 
craftsmanship and loyalty from its tradesmen. From one leadership 
position to the next, Tom has continued that history as he displayed 
his unwavering dedication to the

[[Page E1584]]

members of the Pipe Fitters and other trades. He took on tasks that 
benefited not just tradesmen but also the greater community. The Pipe 
Fitters have supported and assisted the community through their 
unwavering dedication, and the community continues to turn to the 
trades when in need, and the Pipe Fitters have been one of its greatest 
assets.
  Tom's dedication and loyalty to the trades is matched only by his 
devotion to his family. His commitment to his community is truly 
admirable, but his commitment to his family is most impressive. Tom and 
his devoted wife, Barbara, have one son, Brian, and one daughter, 
Shannon.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in commending Thomas A. Burke for his lifetime of leadership, 
service, and dedication to the community. He has given his time and 
efforts selflessly to the tradesmen he has worked with and represented, 
as well as to the people of Northwest Indiana. He has a personality 
that motivates those around him to work hard and be successful. His 
fellow officers and brother Pipe Fitters respect him and find him to be 
a role model and a true friend. For his service and uncompromising 
dedication, Thomas A. Burke is worthy of the highest praise, and I ask 
that you join me in wishing him well upon his retirement.

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