[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 198 (Monday, November 15, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H6259]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF EMLEN TUNNELL
(Ms. SCANLON asked and was given permission to address the House for
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Ms. SCANLON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and
legacy of Emlen Tunnell, who was born in Bryn Mawr almost a century
ago, and became a standout football player at Radnor High School.
Last month, the U.S. Coast Guard named a Sentinel-Class Cutter for
Tunnell to recognize his accomplishments as an NFL pioneer and a hero
in the U.S. Coast Guard. During World War II, Mr. Tunnell received the
Silver Lifesaving Medal for rescuing one shipmate from a fire during a
torpedo attack and another after he fell into frigid water off
Newfoundland.
After the war, Tunnell became the first Black player for the New York
Giants, as well as the first Black talent scout, and first Black
assistant coach in the NFL. In 1967, Tunnell became the first Black man
inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
When the cutter was commissioned last month, Tunnell was described as
someone who didn't set out to be a trailblazer, just a great human
being who wanted to make a difference in the world.
We are so proud to honor Emlen Tunnell today.
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