[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 139 (Friday, August 25, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING WILLIS JAMES ROCKWOOD ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                          HON. ELISSA SLOTKIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 25, 2023

  Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I honor a local hero who bravely 
served and defended our Nation overseas, then returned home to build a 
thriving life and business back in Michigan. As Willis James Rockwood 
celebrates his 100th birthday, I pay tribute to his extraordinary life 
of service and dedication to his country, his family, and his 
community.
  Willis Rockwood was born on August 26, 1923 in Long Rapids, Michigan. 
He enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served as an 
infantryman and squad leader during World War II. His service took him 
across the world and back, fighting with and for our allies in the 
European and Pacific theaters. Willis' exemplary service earned him 
multiple awards and commendations, including a Good Conduct Medal and a 
letter of recognition from President Harry S. Truman.
  Upon his honorable discharge, Willis returned to Michigan where he 
and his best friend from the Army set out to use their skills and 
talents to build a life not just for themselves but for others, a plan 
that came together as Flositz and Rockwood Quality Home Builders. This 
successful construction company flourished for decades, and in 1949, 
the foundation of Willis' own family was installed when he married 
Marion Elizabeth Storing. They spent 65 wonderful years together until 
her passing in 2015, and their love expanded many times over with the 
additions of 3 children, 3 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
  Willis Rockwood built his post-Army life in the Lansing, Michigan, 
area, where he has devoted himself to many organizations and community 
groups, including the American Legion Post No. 238, the Church of the 
Nazarene where he taught Sunday School, and his neighborhood watch, 
where he is known for generously shoveling driveways and sidewalks 
throughout the community. He is a man of many hobbies and talents, 
including wood carving, flying his plane, and bowling. And in the large 
and loving family he established, Willis is beloved as the historical 
archivist and storyteller, with a zest for life and a laugh that echoes 
across multiple generations.
  Mr. Speaker, Willis Rockwood is a man who has spent his long and 
fruitful life deeply devoted to his family, his friends, his country, 
and his faith. Those who know and love him fondly refer to him as their 
``National Treasure,'' and I assert that he is just that. On the 
occasion of his 100th birthday, I salute his life of service, and want 
to reflect our community, our state, and our Nation's gratitude for all 
he has contributed and constructed.

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