[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14964]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO RAY CANDELARIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                  in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 16, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to stand before this body of 
Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to a man who was willing 
to sacrifice in the service of our country. Ray Candelaria of Cortez, 
Colorado served this nation in World War II, going on to dedicate his 
time and effort toward the betterment of the Cortez community.
  In order to serve his nation during a time of need, Ray left high 
school early to enlist in the Armed Forces. Ray joined up shortly after 
the attack on Pearl Harbor, serving in the Army for two years. He was 
injured and returned home, where he became active in numerous veterans' 
causes. Ray served as Commander of the Ute Mountain Post of the 
American Legion, Chairman of the Ute Mountain Rodeo Parade, and 
currently commands the Disabled American Veterans Post. His hard work 
and dedication to veteran's affairs have truly made Ray a leader in the 
Cortez community.
  On May 22, 2003, Ray walked across the stage at Montezuma-Cortez High 
School and received his diploma after 60 years of service. He was one 
of several veterans who took advantage of a new Colorado law that 
enables those who fought in World War II to receive full high school 
diplomas.
  Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Ray Candelaria and commend 
him for his service to our country. He and the other heroes of ``the 
greatest generation'' defeated totalitarianism and fascism, ensuring 
the freedom of all Americans. Ray left the simple pleasures of life in 
Colorado for the serious work of defending this great nation and it 
gives me immense pleasure to honor Ray and offer my congratulations on 
his graduation. Our country will always be grateful for his service.

                          ____________________