[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 179 (Thursday, December 10, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H9213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO THOMAS GALLAGHER

  (Mr. KATKO asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of 
Thomas Gallagher, an honorable public servant who passed away earlier 
this week.
  Following his service in the United States Air Force during the 
Korean war, Thomas earned an undergraduate and master's degree while 
simultaneously pursuing his career in law enforcement and raising a 
family.
  Thomas joined the New York City Police Department in 1957 and went on 
to serve the city for 37 years, rising all the way to the rank of 
assistant chief.
  Mr. Speaker, Thomas Gallagher was the son of Irish immigrants. From a 
very early age, he learned the importance of hard work and selfless 
dedication to his family and the community. Though he endured many 
tragedies in his life, including the loss of all three of his wives to 
various diseases, he never lost his zeal for life. He was often buoyed 
by the great pride he held for all three of his children, who rose to 
become great successes in law, business, and the Secret Service.
  Thomas personifies the great American spirit. Not only did he 
persevere through trying times, he prospered. His was a life well 
lived, and I feel truly blessed to have known him and his great family.
  May God now hold Thomas in the palm of His hand.

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