[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 72 (Friday, April 28, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E384]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING CHARLES STEELE'S SERVICE TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 
                       AND THE CITY OF MANCHESTER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 28, 2023

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charles Steele, 
a resident of Manchester, Michigan on the occasion of his 93rd 
birthday. His dedication and patriotism to his country and to his city 
is worthy of commendation.
  Born in 1930, Charles moved to Manchester shortly after his birth. 
During high school and after graduation, he was a member of the Navy 
Reserve. Shortly after an honorable discharge from the Navy Reserve, 
Charles was drafted into the Army in 1951, where he stayed until being 
honorably discharged in 1953. In April of 1953 he joined the Manchester 
American Legion, Post 117.
  Charles' dedication to Post 117 and the veteran's community over the 
last 70 years cannot be understated. He was heavily involved in the 
construction of their new hall in the 1970s, which for decades served 
as a popular location for community events, parties, weddings, and 
bingo games. The last seven decades has seen him serve as the Commander 
of Post 117 on five separate occasions, as well as being the Post 
Chaplain for the last 15 years. As Chaplain, he has spoken at many of 
the Memorial Day Services in the area, as well as attending military 
funerals where he presents the flag to the families of fallen veterans.
  Over the last 70 years, Charles' involvement in his community has 
been visible to everyone outside of the veteran community as well. He 
started the Color Guard Team that has been present at every Manchester 
High School football game since 1953. He missed his first game in 70 
years last season but is hopeful to be back this fall. Starting with 
the Centennial Celebration of the City of Manchester in 1967, there are 
around 70 flags that are put up and taken down daily on holidays and 
special occasions on Main St. For 55 years, he has helped with the 
flags. Most recently and when he is available, he drives the truck with 
the flags.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Charles 
Steele's lifetime of service to this Nation and his community. His 
commitment and dedication go beyond Legion Post 117. He has 
demonstrated the same qualities to his community, Emanuel United Church 
of Christ, the Manchester Athletic Boosters, and his family. We thank 
him for his service and wish him the happiest of birthdays.