[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 26 (Thursday, February 17, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF CECIL L. ANCHORS, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 17, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States 
Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of 
Northwest Florida's beloved Cecil L. Anchors, Sr.
  Mr. Anchors was a pivotal community leader in the Northwest Florida 
community for decades. He grew up in Niceville, Florida and graduated 
from Niceville High School in 1936. After high school Mr. Anchors 
attended the University of Florida. His passion for the Florida Gators' 
storied athletic program was unrivaled.
  Mr. Anchors was also a devoted patriot. After graduating from 
college, he returned to Northwest Florida to work at the Air Proving 
Ground at Eglin Air Force Base. When the United States entered World 
War II, Mr. Anchors volunteered for Army service. He served his country 
with honor and distinction in the European Theater, including at the 
famous Battle of the Bulge.
  In 1948, Mr. Anchors was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court of 
Okaloosa County, a position that he held until his retirement in 1976. 
Mr. Anchors was a leader in the community, and an innovator at the 
courthouse. He established the first computer system in Okaloosa County 
public offices and oversaw the construction of a new courthouse in 
Crestview, Florida.
  A true local leader, Mr. Anchors was a charter member of the 
Choctawhatchee Rotary Club, the Rocky Bayou Country Club, and the Air 
Force Museum Board of Directors. He also served as the first elected 
Post Commander of the Niceville Chapter of the American Legion in 1945, 
as well as president of the Crestview Kiwanis Club.
  Mr. Anchors played an active role in local, state, and national 
politics. He served as the Okaloosa County leader during President 
Kennedy's 1960 Presidential campaign; however, his fondest memories 
were of his time serving the people of Okaloosa County as the Clerk of 
the Circuit Court.
  To some Cecil Anchors will be remembered as a patriot and a leader in 
the civic community. To others he will be remembered as a lifelong 
Florida Gator. To his friends and family, he will most fondly be 
remembered as a loving and devoted family man. His tireless work and 
immense contributions to Northwest Florida cannot be overstated.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it gives me 
great pride to honor the life of Cecil Anchors, Sr., and his living 
legacy.

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