[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 56 (Friday, April 15, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           REX THORNE TRIBUTE

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                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 15, 2011

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rex Thorne of 
Huntington, Indiana. Mr. Thorne was a war hero, an incredibly 
successful engineer and community leader in a life that touched people 
all over the United States.
  Following high school, Mr. Thorne enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he 
served on the USS Heyliger during World War II. Mr. Thorne's bravery 
and that of his his fellow servicemen contributed to America's victory 
in the Pacific Theater.
  After serving his country abroad, he returned to attend Purdue 
University. He graduated with a degree in chemical engineering and 
quickly joined the Union Camp paper company. During his tenure with the 
company, he advanced from working in the lab to his eventual position 
as Corporate Director for Environmental Affairs. His work took him 
across the country and gave others an opportunity to meet and work with 
him.
  Mr. Thorne also lent much of his time to volunteer work for clubs, 
charities and non-profit organizations. He enjoyed fund raising and 
organizing events for many groups, most notably the Boy Scouts, the 
Safe Shelter Board and the Salvation Army. He was an active member of 
the Rotary Club Savannah West and the Skidaway Island United Methodist 
Church, where he taught Sunday School for several years.
  Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the life of Rex Thorne. From 
his service in World War II, his life as a businessman and his 
volunteer work, he had a profound impact on many people. There is no 
doubt that his legacy will continue to inspire others.

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