[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 31 (Tuesday, February 24, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E235]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF COL. JOHN G. CHIARELLA, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 24, 2015

  Ms. ESTY. Mr. Speaker, last weekend, the State of Connecticut lost 
one of its great sons with the passing of Col. John G. Chiarella, Sr., 
a veteran from Waterbury who continued to serve his nation, state and 
community long after his military career ended.
  Col. Chiarella entered the United States Army in 1950 and was 
deployed to Korea in October 1952. He became a Reservist in 1953 and 
was called back to active duty during the Berlin Crisis. He achieved 
the rank of colonel in 1975 and retired from the military after 34 
years of exemplary service.
  When he returned to his hometown of Waterbury, Col. Chiarella 
dedicated himself to the community he loved. Reflecting his commitment 
to all who have served in the Armed Forces, ``the Colonel,'' as 
everyone knew him, led the Waterbury Veterans Memorial Committee for 
over 25 years. As chairman, he helped countless veterans and their 
families receive the services, benefits, and recognition they deserved.
  In 2011, John Chiarella was inducted into the Connecticut Veterans 
Hall of Fame, in recognition of his extraordinary commitment to his 
fellow veterans, as well as his dedication to future generations, which 
he demonstrated by establishing patriotic programs for school children.
  Col. Chiarella was also a devoted family man. He loved his late wife, 
Ann--who he called ``the General''--with all of his heart. They were 
married for 59 years before her death in 2011. He and Ann raised a 
beautiful family with three sons, and seven grandchildren.
  I had the great fortune to know Col. Chiarella and call him my 
friend. His warm heart, wonderful sense of humor, infectious smile, and 
love of life touched all who knew him. He truly left the world a better 
place.
  Col. Chiarella's life embodied the spirit of civic engagement that 
strengthens our communities, and makes our country a better place. His 
contributions to the City of Waterbury, the State of Connecticut, and 
to the United States will not be forgotten.
  Colonel, we love you and miss you.

                          ____________________