[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 74 (Tuesday, May 2, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1459-S1460]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        TRIBUTE TO THOMAS HAGEN

 Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, today, I rise to honor the lifetime 
accomplishments of Thomas B. Hagen, a remarkable leader, a pillar of 
his hometown of Erie, PA, and a man whose commitment to public service 
is unparalleled.
  Tom Hagen is a Navy man, an officer with more than 30 years of 
service to his country, and while he retired long ago, he has continued 
to live up to the Navy's belief of ``Not self, but Country.''
  You can see Tom's Navy background in one of his other passions, 
historical preservation. His support enabled the Smithsonian 
Institution's National Museum of American History to exhibit the USS 
Gunboat Philadelphia and his efforts enabled the Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania to reconstruct Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's War of 1812 
vessel, the Flagship Niagara. Thanks to his efforts on behalf of these 
and many other projects, Tom has helped to ensure that many historical 
sites across our country will be available for future generations to 
enjoy.
  Tom is also deeply committed to the economic vitality of his hometown 
of Erie and has spearheaded efforts to ensure that Erie is a thriving 
community that serves all of its residents equitably. His support for 
economic development through the Erie Innovation District has instilled 
hope in many for the growth and success of northwestern Pennsylvania. 
His support for the ``Empower Erie'' initiative led to the creation of 
the Erie County Community College that provides a pathway for Erie 
County residents to more accessible education and greater employment 
opportunities. Tom has also played a key role in the purchase and 
rehabilitation of countless buildings in Erie, not only revitalizing 
the economy, but also creating employment.
  Tom is equally committed to providing opportunities for those 
struggling to better their lives. In 2015, he established the Susan 
Hirt Hagen fund to identify promising ideas to address persistent 
poverty, improve educational achievement, and halt economic decline. He 
has sought to help the vulnerable in times of crisis through his 
support for nonprofits like SafeNet, helping them take in more victims 
of abuse.
  Erie has had few better friends than Tom Hagen. He is not just a 
friend to the city; he is the quintessential servant leader who steps 
in to fill a need wherever one may be, doing so with humility and 
always seeking to elevate others before himself. The care, commitment, 
and support he has shown to this city and this region are remarkable.

[[Page S1460]]

  From his service as a captain in the U.S. Navy, his tenure as 
Pennsylvania's last secretary of commerce and first secretary of 
community and economic development, to his chairmanship of the board of 
Erie Insurance Group companies, Tom has a long and distinguished career 
serving his country, his State, and his community.
  It is an honor to call him a friend and to recognize him for his 
outstanding service to his community and to the country.

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