[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 167 (Thursday, December 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2168]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING JAMES R. BOMBARD

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. TIMOTHY H. BISHOP

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 16, 2010

  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize my 
constituent, James R. Bombard of Port Jefferson, New York, for his hard 
work and commitment to America's veterans. Jim will retire on December 
23rd after twelve years of service at the New York State Division of 
Veterans Affairs. Jim's many contributions and achievements over a 
career dedicated to public service have undoubtedly enhanced the lives 
of our Nation's veterans and expanded opportunities afforded to them.
  During his service as an Army paratroop commander during the Vietnam 
War, Captain Bombard was decorated with the Silver Star and Purple 
Heart. Following his service, Jim continued on a path of service by 
advocating for future generations of servicemen and women.
  In the late 1980s, Mr. Bombard served as Special Assistant to 
Congressman Robert J. Mrazek of New York. He worked on the American 
Homecoming Act of 1988, which allowed Vietnamese children, born of 
American fathers, to immigrate to the United States. This legislation 
resulted in America welcoming nearly 100,000 Asian Americans and 
relatives, enriching our vibrant Vietnamese-American community.
  Continuing his dedication to veterans, Jim served as Chief of the New 
York State Division of Veterans Affairs' Bureau of Veterans Education, 
working to improve the ``veteran friendliness'' of New York 
institutions of higher education. As Legislative Director, two-term 
President, and Chief of the National Association of State Approving 
Agencies, Jim has enhanced the policy and curricula that promote 
quality education and training opportunities for veterans.
  Jim's experience in state government, industry, and the halls of 
Congress have also informed the development and implementation of the 
post 9/11 GI Bill, which extended full tuition and benefits to the 
newest generation of American heroes.
  Madam Speaker, building a career on expanding opportunity to veterans 
is a calling of the highest honor. James R. Bombard deserves our 
gratitude and recognition for his outstanding service and enduring 
contributions to improving the lives of America's veterans. We wish him 
continued success in his future endeavors as well as a long and 
fulfilling retirement.

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