[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 64 (Wednesday, May 8, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E625]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING CHIEF JOHN STEVENS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 8, 2013

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the leadership of 
John Stevens, former Chief of the Passamaquoddy and Commissioner of 
Indian Affairs for the State of Maine.
  Chief Stevens is known throughout Maine as a man of great wisdom and 
compassion. His distinguished career in public service has led him to 
serve the state's native peoples in a variety of capacities. As a 
Tribal Councilor, John worked to strengthen Passamaquoddy cultural 
values and promote economic progress. During his terms as Chief, John 
worked effectively to combat unemployment and crippling debt. He also 
played an enormous role in the legal battle that would eventually 
result in Congressional Legislation to grant federal recognition to the 
Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, and Maliseet. Chief Stevens would also go on 
to serve as the first Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the State of 
Maine.
  In addition to his devotion for the native peoples of Maine, John is 
also a proud veteran of the Korean War. He has often cited the war-
devastated villages he encountered overseas as an inspiration behind 
his efforts to improve conditions for his own people. Today, the 
Passamaquoddy Tribe owns more than 200,000 acres of land in the State.
  I consider myself privileged to have had the opportunity to work with 
John as a fellow public servant and as a friend. On May 9, 2013, Chief 
Joseph Socobasin, Vice Chief Clayton Sockabasin and the Indian Township 
Tribal Council will dedicate the Tribal Government Office Building in 
Chief Stevens' honor. I can think of no one more deserving of this 
tremendous honor.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me again in honoring Chief John Stevens for 
his long and remarkable career of public service.

                          ____________________