[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 125 (Thursday, July 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E754-E755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY VETERAN RALPH CHECCHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THOMAS H. KEAN, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 30, 2026

  Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of U.S. Army 
Veteran Ralph Checchio, a life-long Scotch Plains resident, who will be 
remembered for his service, character, and devotion to country and 
community.
  Ralph Checchio was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having 
served honorably as a sergeant in the 27th Artillery Division during 
the Vietnam War, spending time in both Korea and Vietnam before being 
honorably discharged. In answering our Nation's call, he demonstrated 
the courage, duty, and sacrifice that define the American 
servicemember.
  At home in Scotch Plains, Ralph Checchio started a successful career 
as a local business owner and operator of Checchio Paving, leading a 
family-owned business for over five decades. Active in the community, 
he served as chair of the Scotch Plains Fourth of July Fireworks 
Committee, Annual Car Show Committee, chair of the Scotch Plains 
Construction Board of Appeals, and as a member of Scotch Plains 9/11 
Memorial Committee.
  Ralph Checchio also devoted his time to fellow veteran causes, 
through his leadership and stewardship of the Memorial Day Parade 
Committee, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee, Veteran Banner Program 
Committee, Memorial Day Concert Committee, and Feed the Veterans 
Committee.
  Furthermore, Ralph Checchio's commitment to his community earned him 
the Americanism Award from the Scotch Plains UNICO, as well as the Good 
Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America.
  Ralph Checchio's life reflects the spirit of selfless service, whose 
strength of character and unwavering patriotism shaped our Nation. His 
story inspires all of us and serves as a reminder of the enduring 
values that strengthen our communities.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of 
Ralph Checchio and his distinguished military service and civic 
commitment, while expressing our profound gratitude for his 
contributions to our state and to our Nation. We extend our deepest 
condolences to his family.

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