[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 5 (Thursday, January 9, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E39]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    MOURNING THE PASSING OF CONGRESSMAN VICENTE ``BEN'' GARRIDO BLAZ

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                       HON. ENI F.H. FALEOMAVAEGA

                           of american samoa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 9, 2014

  Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I 
learned today of the passing of former Congressman Vicente `Ben' 
Garrido Blaz. Elected to the U.S. Congress in 1984 to represent the 
Territory of Guam, Congressman Blaz was an exceptional leader for his 
people. He was also an example of statesmanship to the greater Pacific 
region, including American Samoa. He will truly be missed.
  As a genuine patriot, Blaz first served his country as a Marine and 
served three tours in Osaka, Okinawa, and Vietnam. He was the first 
general officer from Guam to serve in any branch of the U.S. Armed 
Forces. In 1977, he became the first Chamorro ever to be promoted to 
the rank of Brigadier General.
  Congressman Blaz served Guam for eight years in the U.S. Congress 
from 1985-1993 (99th Congress--102nd Congress). As a freshman member 
and respected leader among his peers, he was also elected as President 
of his freshman class. I will remember him also as a dear friend who 
welcomed me as a fellow islander and brother after I was elected to 
serve American Samoa in 1988.
  Congressman Blaz will be remembered for his dedicated service and 
pioneering spirit. He will also be remembered as a family man: a loving 
husband to his late wife, Ann Evers Blaz, a devoted father and 
grandfather. I count myself as one of many who was blessed to share a 
friendship with this great man and I will hold close to my heart his 
example of leadership, passion for his Chamorro culture, and immense 
love for his people.
  The people of American Samoa join together to honor our Chamorro 
brother. We give our deepest condolences to his family, especially his 
sons, Mike and Tom, and their families, and to the people of Guam as 
they mourn his passing.

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