[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 9, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E881]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING COMMUNITY CHAMPION SAM ZURZOLO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE KELLY

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 9, 2019

  Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize 
one of my constituents from back home in Western Pennsylvania, Mr. Sam 
Zurzolo. Sam is a lifelong resident of Butler County and an admirable 
veteran who proudly served as a Sergeant Major in the United States 
Marine Corps. Sam is the epitome of a service-minded citizen and his 
unwavering dedication to the community is inspiring and praiseworthy.
  Sam had a successful military career, dedicating thirty years to the 
United States Marine Corps and the United States Marine Corps Reserves. 
During this time, Sam served in various capacities and was stationed 
all throughout the country. Regardless of the assignment or location, 
Sam displayed an exemplary work ethic and went above and beyond to 
serve the surrounding communities and volunteer where there was a need. 
His efforts did not go unnoticed and he was awarded numerous 
certificates of appreciation and meritorious mast, including the 
following: Navy Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, 
Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Star, 
Marine Corp Good Conduct Medal with 3 Stars, Marine Corps Reserve 
Medal, Marine Corps Recruiting Ribbon, Cold War Certificate & Ribbon, 
Rifle Expert Badge and numerous Pistol Expert Badges.
  After his military service Sam spent eighteen years working as a 
maintenance superintendent for Oxford Development, a real estate and 
construction company, before retiring. Driven by a desire to continue 
serving, he got involved with local government and in 2005 Sam was 
elected to serve as a Butler Township Commissioner, a position which he 
maintains today. Furthermore, Sam is the Vice-Chairman of the Butler 
Township Planning Commission and he serves on the Executive Committee 
for the American Legion Post 778.
  Sam is actively involved with the Butler County United Way and the 
Butler County Rotary Club. As a tireless volunteer for these 
organizations, his involvement has been absolutely essential to the 
success of many projects. From taking the lead on a major west-end 
revitalization project to overseeing the construction of local 
playgrounds, Sam has spent thousands of hours working to enhance the 
community. He has installed flag poles, constructed monuments and 
memorials, remodeled homes for wounded marines, mentored local Eagle 
Scouts, and much more. In addition, Sam is a past master of the Masonic 
Lodge, a 32nd Degree Mason, and a lifelong volunteer with Lifesteps and 
the group Toys for Tots, which he started in Butler in 1983. His 
involvement does not stop there, Sam is also a member of countless 
civic organizations, such as, but not limited to: 2nd Marine Division 
Association, Sons of Italy, Loyal Order of the Moose, and Butler County 
Law Enforcement Association.
  Sam has been a catalyst for improvement throughout the community and 
his passion and dedication deserve praise. He is a leader in the truest 
sense of the word and a role model for those who are privileged to know 
him. Sam has built a legacy based on selflessness, compassion, and 
integrity. He has set a standard of excellence and generosity that will 
inspire others for generations to come.
  Therefore, on behalf of the 16th Congressional District, the State of 
Pennsylvania, and the United States of America, I would like to express 
sincere gratitude and appreciation to Sam Zurzolo--an extraordinary 
individual, a noble public servant, and a true Community Champion.

                          ____________________