[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 39 (Monday, March 18, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E320-E321]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING ANDREW A. ATHENS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NITA M. LOWEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 18, 2013

  Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Andrew A. 
Athens for his lifetime of philanthropic service, most notably to the 
Greek Community and Orthodox Church.

[[Page E321]]

  Known as the leader of millions of Greeks living outside of Greece, 
Mr. Athens served as the President of the World Council of Hellenes 
Abroad, SAE, since its founding in 1995. In 2006, Mr. Athens was named 
President Emeritus by the Sixth World Assembly of SAE.
  Since its founding, SAE has worked to promote Hellinism, support the 
efforts of the Greeks worldwide, and strengthen ties between Greece and 
the countries of residence of Greek expatriates.
  During his tenure with SAE, Mr. Athens has travelled to every 
continent to further SAE's mission. He also worked closely with other 
notable Hellenes in the Coordinated Effort of Hellenes. He has met with 
nearly every U.S. President and leader in the U.S. Senate and House of 
Representatives on Hellenic and Orthodox issues. It is with Mr. Athens' 
care and dedication that SAE has thrived.
  Mr. Athens was also a proud founder of Hellenicare, a Primary Health 
Care Initiative and humanitarian effort. Under his direction, a total 
of seven medical care centers were opened in Hellenic areas of the 
Republic of Albania, Armenia, Georgia, and Ukraine. These centers 
provide free medical services for those who would otherwise have no 
access to high quality medical treatment.
  A decorated U.S. Army Captain, Mr. Athens was honored with the Bronze 
Star and the U.S. Army Commendation Medal for his service in World War 
II. He has also led a successful career in business, founding the 
Metron Steel Corporation, which continues to be one of the largest 
steelworks in the country.
  Mr. Athens has been honored with more than 42 awards, medals and 
distinctions for his service to the community.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize my friend Andrew A. Athens for 
his remarkable service and his lifelong commitment to enriching the 
lives of others. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring his 
tremendous accomplishments.

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