[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 80 (Thursday, May 11, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E424]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING MR. JEFFREY W. DONAHUE AS HE CELEBRATES HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 11, 2023

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jeffrey 
``Jeff'' W. Donahue, a resident of Virginia's 11th Congressional 
District, as he celebrates his 100th birthday on May 14th of this year.
  I had the honor of meeting Mr. Donahue in 2019 at a Memorial Day 
Ceremony in the town of Vienna, Virginia. A veteran of World War II, 
Mr. Donahue was a naval aviator flying an F4F in combat missions in the 
Pacific Theater while serving aboard the USS Salamaua. His remarks at 
the ceremony focused on his service to his country and the sacrifices 
made by many members of his generation who lost their lives in the war. 
He was 96 at the time, yet he spoke with clarity as though he were 
talking about events he had just experienced. Following World War II, 
he continued his military service in the reserves, when he was called 
once more to serve as a flight instructor in Pensacola, Florida during 
the Korean war.
  Like so many military veterans, Mr. Donahue took advantage of the 
G.I. Bill to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of 
Connecticut. He then pursued a career in the insurance industry with 
Fireman's Fund Insurance, which took him and his growing family on a 
journey to many cities on the east coast until their final move to 
Fairfax County in 1970.
  Service to his country and community defines Mr. Donahue's life. For 
years, he has been an active member of his church and volunteered as a 
tutor for elementary school children into his mid-90s.
  There is an adage that age is just a number, which certainly holds 
true for Mr. Donahue and his wife, Barbara. Over their 72 years 
together they have raised 6 children, 5 of whom graduated from James 
Madison High School. As their family tree grows, they now have 13 
grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren who affectionately call them 
Pop and Gram.
  Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Jeff's 100th birthday, I want to extend 
my best wishes for a joyful gathering of family and friends. I also 
extend my appreciation for his service to our country. Happy 100th 
birthday, Jeff.

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