[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 102 (Thursday, June 15, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E828]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE 80TH BIRTHDAY OF MR. LAWRENCE REEDUS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 15, 2017

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege and with great respect 
that I congratulate Mr. Lawrence Reedus on a momentous milestone, his 
80th birthday. Lawrence will be celebrating with family and friends on 
Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center in 
Gary, Indiana.
   Lawrence Wesley Reedus was born on June 5, 1937, in Gary, Indiana, 
the second oldest of five children. As a young man, he attended 
Roosevelt High School, where he excelled in his athletic pursuits, 
lettering in both football and basketball. After graduating in 1956, 
Lawrence continued his educational pursuits in Indiana at Manchester 
College. After working various jobs, Mr. Reedus found his calling as a 
career fireman for the Gary Fire Department, serving the city and its 
residents for more than twenty years. Known for his leadership and his 
political interest, Lawrence was determined to obtain a union for his 
fellow firefighters, so it is no surprise that he would go on to become 
the first African American president for the Gary Firefighters 
Association IAFF Local 359. For his unwavering dedication to his 
colleagues and to the community of Gary, Lawrence Reedus is worthy of 
the highest praise.
   Mr. Reedus's greatest source of pride is his amazing family. He has 
three beloved children and three adoring grandchildren. Lawrence now 
resides in Memphis, Tennessee, but we are honored by his loyal service 
to the people of Gary for so many years.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in commending Lawrence Reedus on this special day. His 
outstanding dedication to his community and fellow firefighters is 
truly admirable. It is my pleasure to join Lawrence's family and 
friends in wishing him a very happy 80th birthday.

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