[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 169 (Tuesday, November 17, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1643]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN HONOR OF THE LATE BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES ABRAHAM

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                         HON. PATRICK J. TIBERI

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 17, 2015

  Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late Brigadier 
General James M. Abraham who entered eternal life on November 8, 2015.
  General Abraham's many achievements are a testament to patriotism and 
service above self. In his nearly ninety-three years on Earth, 
``General Jim'' was a voice for change and a force for good in his 
local community, as a state leader, and in his national service.
  James Abraham first answered the call to national service when he 
enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving in the 3rd Army 
under General George S. Patton. Continuing his service over the next 
four decades in both the regular Army and the Army National Guard, 
General Abraham's career culminated with his posting as the Assistant 
Adjutant General for the State of the Ohio Army National Guard. Many 
times over he was recognized for his leadership skills and 
professionalism, receiving the Legion of Merit, four bronze stars, 
three Army Commendation Medals, the Normandy Medal, the French diploma 
of appreciation, and induction into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame.
  Yet General Abraham's contributions out of uniform are of similar 
distinction and remain worthy of recognition. Jim lived his life as an 
innovator, facilitating new ways to do business in local government, 
holding numerous patents, and publishing three books. His keen 
intellect and thoughtful leadership style also served the citizens of 
Gahanna, Ohio when he took the reins as service safety director. To 
recognize his many years in local governance, the residents of Gahanna 
named their city hall in his honor as a fitting testament to his 
tireless efforts on their behalf.
  A proud alumnus of Ohio University, General Abraham dedicated much of 
his time to supporting the Bobcat family. He is credited with 
successfully preventing the deactivation of the Ohio University ROTC 
program which continues to shape the future of our military. He also 
created new methods of instruction which have been applied to other 
universities across the nation. For his unwavering commitment to the 
university, its students, and higher education he was awarded an 
honorary doctorate in 2015. This capstone recognition served as his 
final public salute for his innumerable accomplishments and a life well 
lived.
  I am proud to have known General Abraham as both a friend and 
colleague. Over the years, he advised countless public officials on 
veterans' issues, engineering ventures, and leadership in difficult 
times. He served as the chairman of my Service Academy Nomination Board 
as well as that of former Congressman John R. Kasich, helping select 
the best and brightest to carry our armed forces into the future. 
Lastly, his calm and steady demeanor has provided me immeasurable 
resolve in difficult times.
  I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend, the General. Though my 
words today fall short of the recognition he rightfully deserves, I 
believe his reputation and legacy across Central Ohio will remain 
examples for Ohioans, and carry on as a testimony to his 
exceptionalism. His spirit is best captured in one of his many 
inspirational exhortations that in our lives ``Each plateau that is 
reached should only be the launching point for the next achievement.'' 
Our most fitting tribute is to live our lives accordingly, and continue 
to reach for higher goals.
  On behalf of the citizens of Ohio's 12th Congressional District, I 
say farewell to General James M. Abraham, one of our finest neighbors. 
I am honored to pay tribute to him today.

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