[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 131 (Friday, September 11, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING VETERANS' VOICES AWARD RECIPIENT RALPH DONAIS

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                             HON. TOM EMMER

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 11, 2015

  Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate 
Ralph Donais of Elk River for receiving a Veterans' Voices Legacy 
Award.
  Ralph served in the Marine Corps from 1964 to 1994 and retired as an 
Aviation Avionics Chief. During his service, Ralph fought for our 
country while being deployed for two tours in Vietnam. Ralph's efforts 
earned him the Meritorious Service Medal along with numerous other 
awards.
  Ralph's commitment to his country and his fellow veterans did not end 
once he returned to Elk River. Ralph has been involved in the United 
Veterans Legislative Council of Minnesota and served as chair of the 
council as well. He also spends time at the Minnesota Capitol to inform 
and educate legislators as well as testifying in committees regarding 
issues important to the veterans community.
  Additionally, Ralph is a member of many organizations including the 
Marine Corps League, and the Fleet Reserve Association. Another 
organization that Ralph is involved with is the Enlisted Association 
where he has served as Chapter President. Elk River's Beyond the Yellow 
Ribbon program, which lends a helping hand to veterans and members of 
our military before, during and after deployments, was started by Ralph 
and he remains an active member.
  Ralph's involvement in his community extends beyond his work with 
veterans. He lends his vocal talents by serving on the Board of 
Directors of the North Star Boys Choir and as a member of the St. 
Andrew Choir.
  I would like to congratulate Ralph for receiving this award, but I 
would also like to commend him for all that he has done for his country 
and the Elk River community. It takes an extraordinary person to 
accomplish all that he has, and I am proud to recognize him here today.

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