[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 65 (Thursday, April 10, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S2554]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING ROYCE POLLARD

  Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, Mayor Royce Pollard, a dedicated public 
servant and champion for Vancouver, WA, passed away on February 24, 
2025.
  Before his time in local government, Mayor Pollard led a 
distinguished career in the U.S. Army that included two tours during 
the Vietnam war. During his nearly 27 years in the military, he 
attained the rank of lieutenant colonel and numerous awards and 
decorations, including the Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, Expert 
Infantryman's Badge, and Combat Infantryman's Badge during his time in 
Vietnam. His final post was at the Vancouver Barracks, where he retired 
as commander in 1988. His dedication to public service was immediately 
on display as he joined the Vancouver City Council the following year, 
beginning a 21-year career serving the citizens of the city of 
Vancouver.
  Mayor Pollard served on the city council for 7 years and then as 
mayor for 14 years. During his tenure, Mayor Pollard revitalized 
Vancouver's downtown core, transforming it into a vibrant center of 
community and commerce. The revived Esther Short Park and the beautiful 
waterfront development stand as enduring symbols of his bold leadership 
and love of community. He also oversaw the annexation of the Vancouver 
Mall, the creation of the Hilton Hotel and Convention Center project, 
and the historic Cascade Park annexation.
  Mayor Pollard was a proud champion of ``America's Vancouver,'' a move 
to make the city distinct from Portland, OR, just across the river. He 
was so committed to the cause that when he smashed two Portland-themed 
mugs sold in Vancouver at a coffee shop, newspapers around the Pacific 
Northwest ran the story. In Washington, DC, he was known to talk to 
people unfamiliar with his city and tout its many attributes. Even 
after his tenure as mayor, he continued to help the community grow and 
thrive by serving on 22 different city boards.
  He was a strong and vocal advocate for civic duty, serving one 
another, and honoring those who serve their communities. His 
contributions have left a lasting impact on the city, cementing its 
place as a vibrant and forward-thinking community.
  My heart goes out to the mayor's family, friends, and all who had the 
honor of knowing and working alongside him. I was proud to work with 
him on behalf of his community, and he will be missed. His life's work 
will be felt by generations to come.
  In honor of Royce's life and legacy, I respectfully submit this 
statement to the Record.

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