[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 40 (Monday, March 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E302]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN MEMORY OF BRIGADIER GENERAL RUFUS C. LAZZELL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. THOMAS J. ROONEY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 14, 2016

  Mr. ROONEY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rufus 
C. Lazzell, retired Brigadier General and former mayor of Punta Gorda, 
Florida, who sadly passed away on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at the age 
of 86.
   Rufus Lazzell served as an officer in the United States Army for 
thirty years during which time he fought and commanded valiantly in two 
of our nation's wars, Korea and Vietnam. He commanded the 1st 
Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment (Ranger) during the first battle of 
Prek Klok in 1967 and then went on to hold multiple staff positions 
throughout the Army, including working for the Army Chief of Staff. He 
retired from military service in 1981, earning the rank of Brigadier 
General. His service awards include: the Army Distinguished Service 
Medal, two awards of the Silver Star for gallantry in combat, three 
awards of the Legion of Merit, three awards of the Bronze Star Medal 
(including one for valor), Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious 
Service Medal, four awards of the Air Medal, two awards of the Army 
Commendation Medal and the Purple Heart.
   Although retired from military service, Rufus continued to serve the 
people of the United States. He served on the Punta Gorda City Council 
for eight years including four years as mayor. He was a strong 
supporter of preserving the Charlotte County Court House, a founding 
member of the Military Heritage Museum, was the museum's first inductee 
on their ``Wall of Warrior'', and was the president of the Cultural 
Center of Charlotte County. Although he held high positions of power, 
Rufus' magnanimous character is to be admired and was highlighted when 
he worked as a sales clerk in a local hardware store because he 
``wanted to learn the hardware business and find out how to fix 
things.''
   Rufus was more than a pillar in the community, he was an intricate 
member of the community's foundation. Rufus is survived by his loving 
wife of 64 years, Jo Jac, daughters Victoria and Linda, grandchildren 
and great- grandchildren.
   Mr. Speaker, I speak for all of Charlotte County in saying that our 
thoughts and prayers are with Brigadier General Lazzell's family, as 
well as his friends, co-workers and the entire community as they mourn 
his passing. He will be missed.

                          ____________________