[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 84 (Monday, June 13, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1070]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      WILLIAM R. THURSTON TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 13, 2011

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to businessman, 
community philanthropist, and courageous WWII and Korean War hero, 
William R. Thurston.
  While studying for a geology degree at Harvard University, Mr. 
Thurston trained to fly torpedo bombers for the Navy after Pearl 
Harbor. He was awarded the Air Medal 11 times and the Distinguished 
Flying Cross three times for his bravery while flying missions in the 
Pacific and over Japan.
  Mr. Thurston put his geology degree to use, working for Sun Oil Co. 
between WWII and the Korean War, and for an independent oilman in 
Denver after the Korean War.
  Mr. Thurston moved to Durango in 1977 with his wife Beatrice, where 
he became involved in the local arts scene and was an avid supporter of 
community theater. Lovers of live-music, the Thurstons founded Four 
corners Opera in 1980, and also became sponsors of Music in the 
Mountains, organizers for the Raise the Roof concert series, and 
participants in many other community endeavors.
  Mr. Thurston's community involvement also included efforts to 
preserve and protect the rich history of the Four Corners area, and 
educate others about the region and its people. He supported the 
founding of the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center in 1983, with the 
hope of sharing his great enthusiasm for the area's remarkable past, 
precious artifacts, and cultural significance with others.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to the inspiring 
life of of William R. Thurston. Colorado was fortunate to benefit from 
his tremendous spirit and lifetime of community service.

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