[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 8 (Wednesday, January 23, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E50]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING BILL McBRIDE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KATHY CASTOR

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 23, 2013

  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
highlight the distinguished life of Bill McBride. Mr. McBride's 
contributions to the Tampa Bay community, the State of Florida, and the 
country are worthy of recognition by all.
  Born on May 10, 1945, Mr. McBride moved to Florida at the age of 9 
and spent most of his childhood in Leesburg, Florida where he attended 
high school and distinguished himself on the football field as a 
fullback and linebacker. While attending the University of Florida on a 
football scholarship, his football career was derailed by a knee 
injury. Mr. McBride then turned to public service, becoming an active 
member in Florida Blue Key honor society and president of Alpha Tau 
Omega fraternity.
  At the height of the Vietnam War, Mr. McBride dropped out of law 
school and enlisted in the U.S. Marines. He volunteered for combat 
duty, rose to the rank of captain, and was awarded a Bronze Star with a 
Combat V for valor for his wartime service. After returning from 
Vietnam, Mr. McBride finished law school. At that time, he became a 
civic leader in such organizations as the United Way and the Florida 
Holocaust Museum. He also became a managing partner of Holland and 
Knight, one of Florida's largest law firms.
  Bill McBride was a force for good in the Tampa Bay community and a 
strong advocate for public education and civil rights in Florida. As a 
gubernatorial candidate in 2002, he championed smaller class sizes, 
greater support for teachers, and encouraged greater investment in 
education. Throughout his life he promoted equality in Florida as well, 
advocating for the survivors of the Rosewood racial massacre, pro bono 
legal work, and gay rights. His mission in life was to serve Florida, 
and he accomplished that in innumerable ways. His selfless dedication 
to our community and State will be greatly missed.
  The Tampa Bay community is proud to recognize Bill McBride for his 
lifelong dedication to improving the lives of Floridians. His 
outstanding commitment to the State made him an inspirational community 
leader. I ask that you and all Americans recognize such a remarkable 
citizen for his service to our community and our State.

                          ____________________