[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 7, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E23]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING HARRY C. McLAUGHLIN ON HIS NINETY-FIFTH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 7, 2015

  Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and 
accomplishments of Harry C. McLaughlin, a distinguished member of the 
Western New York community, on his ninety-fifth birthday.
   Mr. McLaughlin was born in Salamanca, New York on December 31st, 
1919. After marrying his beloved wife Marjorie, he enlisted in the 
United States Armed Services.
   A member of the 17th Airborne Division, he served as a Cook, a Motor 
Sergeant, and a Sergeant Major. His position as a Motor Sergeant was 
especially notable; in charge of a Motor Pool containing one hundred 
fifty-four assorted vehicles, Mr. McLaughlin personally performed 
difficult repairs such as engine overhauls, transmissions, transfer 
cases, differentials, relined brakes, and aligned wheels. His 
respectable service and loyalty to the military earned him a 
certificate of thanks from President Harry S. Truman, citing his 
``heartfelt thanks'' for McLaughlin's ``fortitude, resourcefulness and 
calm judgment.''
   Unfortunately his wife Marjorie passed away at a young age due to an 
illness. In 1960, Mr. McLaughlin married Mary, moved to Eden, New York 
and adopted eight children: James J., James H., Dan, Harry Jr., Debby, 
Judith, Maria, and Michael. Four were Mary's, while the other four were 
foster children. For over twenty-five years, the couple continued to 
take in and raise foster children. This honorable endeavor provided 
emotional and physical safety, as well as a loving, stable home for 
many children in need.
   Mr. McLaughlin joined the East Eden Fire Department until his 
retirement in 1981 and practiced carpentry. He was also an active 
member of the American Legion Post 880 in Eden.
   Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to celebrate 
the life and numerous accomplishments of Harry C. McLaughlin. I ask you 
to join me in wishing Mr. McLaughlin a very happy birthday and 
congratulate him for reaching such an exciting milestone.

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