[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 11]
[Senate]
[Page 16350]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



        CELEBRATING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF COACH JEROME VAN METER

 Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, today I rise to celebrate the 
life and accomplishments of one of West Virginia's most esteemed 
citizens, Coach Jerome Van Meter. On August 15th of this year, Coach 
Van Meter will celebrate his 100th birthday. A remarkable milestone for 
a truly remarkable man, Coach Van Meter's birthday provides a special 
opportunity for all of West Virginia to join in thanking him for a 
lifetime of service to our state.
  With a career that has spanned a century, there isn't much that Coach 
Van Meter hasn't accomplished. Known affectionately as just Coach to 
his many students, he led the Beckley Flying Eagles to three state 
championships in football, and six more in basketball. A member of the 
National High School Sports Hall of Fame, Coach was both a beloved 
teacher and principal and served on the faculty of Beckley College. In 
addition to the numerous honors and awards he has received, Coach Van 
Meter holds the great distinction of being a surviving veteran of both 
World Wars.
  Today, however, the countless lives touched by Coach are his greatest 
legacy. The lessons he taught on the basketball court and football 
field brought many victories, but the lessons of life he taught his 
players and students shaped their destinies in more profound ways. 
Dedication, hard work, compassion and dignity are the touchstones of 
Coach Van Meter's career, and his example continues to inspire us.
  Thank you, Coach, for the invaluable contributions you have made to 
the families and communities of West Virginia. As you celebrate this 
very special birthday, you have my deepest admiration and 
gratitude.

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