[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 100 (Monday, July 15, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1057-E1058]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING MR. ERNEST ``ERNIE'' W. CONNER

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 15, 2013

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Ernest 
``Ernie'' Conner as he is honored as the Daughters of the American 
Revolution's National Outstanding Veteran Volunteer of 2013. His 
longstanding service to our nation and his commitment to serving as a 
strong advocate for veterans make Ernie Conner most deserving of this 
honor.
  A retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, Ernie 
understands first-hand the virtue of serving our nation. From January 
1955 until June 1976, Ernie honorably served the United States with two 
tours in Vietnam. He flew 150 missions in B-52 Stratofortress. Due to 
his dedicated service, Ernie received the Air Force Commendation Medal 
with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with four 
Oak Leaf Clusters and the Army Good Conduct Medal with two bronze 
loops. His loyalty and devotion to our country is remarkable and highly 
commendable.
  A tireless advocate for all veterans, Ernie believes it is his duty 
to remember the men and women who defend our freedoms with courage. He 
has served as the Chair of the Veterans Service Committee, Americanism 
Committee and the Support the Troops campaign for the Merced Elks Lodge 
for the past seven years. Through his efforts, the Support the Troops 
program has secured the donation of over four tons of almonds and 
various care packages that are sent to our deployed troops. In order to 
keep this program going, he organizes several fundraisers as well as 
reaching out to local businesses for support. Ernie also organizes the 
Elk veterans' participation in the Annual Merced Veterans Day parade, 
including assisting in construction of the float. He is involved in 
putting on regular Recognition dinners for our Veterans and their 
families, including the Blue and Gold Star families. In total, Ernie 
volunteers over 2,000 hours annually to help serve the needs of our 
veterans.
  A veteran and great American, Ernie's longstanding dedication to 
service is truly a reflection of his superior moral character. As a 
Merced County Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard active member, Ernie 
is committed to ensure proper burial services for our local veterans. 
He helps provide solace and peace of mind to grieving families during 
these

[[Page E1058]]

difficult times. As long as Ernie is involved, veterans will never be 
forgotten.
  In addition to his significant community work, Ernie is a loving 
husband, father and grandfather. He and his wife Joanne have been 
married for 55 years.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ernie 
Conner for his unwavering allegiance to our veteran community. He truly 
exemplifies the best of what America has to offer.

                          ____________________