[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17063]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM MENNA AS HE CELEBRATES HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, July 7, 2003

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to join the many family, friends, and well-wishers who have gathered to 
extend my sincere congratulations to William Menna--known to friends as 
``Wild Bill''--as he celebrates his eightieth birthday. This is an 
important milestone for one of the most well-known and respected of our 
community leaders.
  For ``Wild Bill,'' public service has not been just a job, but a way 
of life. Born and raised in Derby--Connecticut's smallest city--Bill 
joined the United States Navy upon graduating. Serving for four years 
during the World War II, he did tours in both the European and Pacific 
Theaters. After leaving the service, Bill returned to Connecticut and 
made a home with his wife, Mary, in Ansonia where they lived happily 
for almost fifty years before her passing.
  For as long as Valley residents can remember, Bill has been involved 
in both local and state politics. A State Representative, Mayor, and 
vocal community advocate--Bill's commitment and dedication to his 
community is unquestioned. He has long been known as one to fight for 
and give voice to those most in need. In addition to his political 
life, Bill has also volunteered countless hours to a variety of local 
service organizations. Currently he serves as a Board member for the 
Birmingham Group, United Way, Boy Scouts of America, and UNICO. He is a 
past president of the Rotary Club and has long been a volunteer for the 
St. Michael's Carnival, St. Mary's Food Festival and Holy Rosary's Food 
Fiesta. Bill's generosity is seemingly unending and the communities of 
Derby and Ansonia have truly been blessed to be the beneficiaries of 
his time, energy, and compassion.
  When we speak of the ideal public servant, of what it means to give 
back to your community, we talk of those who willingly devote their 
energies to enrich the lives of others. Bill Menna--with his enduring 
dedication and many years of unparalleled service--is a reflection of 
the very spirit of public service. His hard work has made a real 
difference and for that we owe him a debt of gratitude.
  Bill has left an indelible mark on this community--he is a true 
living treasure. I am proud to join all of those gathered today to 
extend my heart-felt congratulations to William Menna on this his 80th 
birthday. Happy Birthday! My very best wishes for many more years of 
health and happiness.

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