[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 63 (Friday, April 12, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E339]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE CASS CITY CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 12, 2024

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dennis (Joe) 
Merchant, a pillar of the Cass City community, for being named Cass 
City's Citizen of the Year. Joe's lifetime of selfless service, both in 
uniform and within our community, exemplifies the highest ideals of 
citizenship and community engagement.
  Joe, a Cass City High School graduate of the class of 1968, answered 
the call of duty by volunteering for the U.S. Army, serving with 
distinction in the 1st Cavalry Division during his time in Vietnam. 
Upon his return, Joe continued to serve our community through his 
family's business until its closure. His commitment to service did not 
wane with the end of his military career or family business, instead, 
it deepened as he became an integral part of the Cass City VFW Post 
3644.
  As Post Commander, Joe's leadership transformed the VFW hall into a 
vibrant community center, reflecting his vision for a space where 
veterans and community members alike could come together. His efforts 
led to significant improvements in the facility, making it a hub of 
activity and support for veterans and their families.
  Joe's dedication to honoring veterans extended beyond the walls of 
the VFW hall. His determination to give Vietnam Veterans the welcome 
home they deserved was realized to bringing Sky Soldiers and their UH1H 
Huey to Cass City for the 4th of July Freedom Festival. This event, 
which Joe tirelessly worked to organize, provided a poignant moment of 
recognition and healing for many veterans, as well as an educational 
and memorable experience for our community.
  Mr. Speaker, it is individuals like Dennis (Joe) Merchant who forge 
the strong backbone of communities across our nation. His lifetime of 
service, both in the armed forces and within Cass City, sets a sterling 
example of dedication, resilience, and community spirit. It is with 
immense honor that we recognize Joe Merchant as Cass City's Citizen of 
the Year, a title he richly deserves for his indelible contributions to 
our community and nation.
  Today, we celebrate Joe's achievements and service, we are reminded 
of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. 
Let us draw inspiration from his example, striving to serve our 
communities and country with the same zeal and selflessness that Joe 
Merchant has shown throughout his remarkable life.

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