[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 38 (Wednesday, February 26, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E217]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL WALTER P. BETLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE STIVERS

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 26, 2020

  Mr. STIVERS. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of 
Ohio's 15th Congressional District to recognize the life and legacy of 
Colonel Walter P. Betley, a true American hero.
  Colonel Betley made a mark in our community in many ways, most 
notably, by committing twenty-eight years of service with the United 
States Army Corps of Engineers. Through tours of duty in World War II, 
the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Colonel Betley earned not one, but two, of 
our nation's highest honors: Bronze Stars, for his achievements.
  Following his time in the Armed Forces, Colonel Betley continued his 
career of service, empowering the next generation by teaching 
vocational skills at the Eastland Career Center in Groveport, Ohio, 
where he worked for over two decades.
  A man of many talents, Colonel Betley went on to found the 
Woodworkers of Central Ohio and the Central Ohio Woodturners, and self-
published his autobiography, From Cold Water Flat to Colonel.
  But most importantly, Colonel Betley is known to many for going above 
and beyond his call of duty. His granddaughter remembers Colonel Betley 
as ``truly one ofthe good guys.'' Let there be no doubt about his 
unwavering devotion to our nation and the positive impact he had on all 
whose lives he touched. Like a pebble dropped in a pond, the ripples 
created by Colonel Betley's life are far-reaching, but his legacy will 
live on in the memories of those who knew him and loved him.
  Central Ohio is undeniably a better place because of Colonel Walter 
Betley and the tremendous life of service he lived, and I am honored to 
celebrate his legacy.

                          ____________________