[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16935]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



IN SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO MERLE F. BRADY FOR HIS OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE 
                           VAN WERT COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 20, 1999

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I 
rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding individual 
from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This Saturday evening, July 
24, 1999, members of the Van Wert, Ohio community will gather to 
recognize the efforts of Merle F. Brady.
  Merle Brady was born in Illinois in 1919, but has lived in Van Wert 
for more than fifty years. During those years, Merle Brady has been a 
true asset to the community and a friend and neighbor to all those who 
know him. A successful business man, Merle owned his own retail 
clothing store for many years, while operating a successful real estate 
business. For many years, he was Chairman of the Board of the Van Wert 
National Bank, and still serves as Director Emeritus.
  A true American hero, Merle served bravely in the United States 
military in World War II where he received the American Theater Ribbon, 
the Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. He is a life member 
of the American Legion, and has served as Post Commander, District 
Commander, Ohio State Commander, and National American Legion Executive 
Committeeman. Merle is still active in his American Legion Post.
  Mr. Speaker, Merle Brady's service to the Van Wert community is 
endless. He was elected to the Van Wert City Council, and served two 
terms as Council President. Merle has been an active member of the Van 
Wert Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Masonic Lodge, Elks, and the 
Trinity United Methodist Church. Merle has also given freely of his 
time and energy to the Van Wert Y.M.C.A. and Associated Charities 
Foundation.
  Mr. Speaker, it is often said that America prospers due to the 
outstanding deeds of her citizens. Without question, Merle F. Brady 
epitomizes that saying. Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues to 
stand and join me in paying special tribute to Merle F. Brady. Thank 
you for your unwavering contributions to the Van Wert area, and best 
wishes for the future.

                          ____________________