[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 8266]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF FRANK L. SWANNER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 23, 2009

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States 
Congress, it is with great respect and honor that I rise today to 
recognize the life and legacy of Northwest Florida's beloved Frank 
Swanner.
  Frank Swanner was a man who lived his life deeply rooted in his 
strong faith in God and love for his family and community. Born in 
Tanner, Alabama on January 28, 1921, he began his working career as a 
farmer, member of the Limestone County School Board, and an active 
member of the local Baptist Church and Baptist Association, as well as, 
working at Chemstrand/Monsanto.
  When Chemstrand/Monsanto transferred the Swanner family from Decatur 
to the Pensacola Plant in 1959, Mr. Swanner and his family moved to 
Milton, Florida, where he continued his active service in the church 
and community as Deacon and music leader in Ferris Hill Baptist Church, 
treasurer of the Santa Rosa Baptist Association, a member of the Santa 
Rosa County Civil Service Board, the Local Democratic Committee, and 
the Kiwanis Club.
  In addition to his love for God and family, Frank had a tremendous 
love for our country. During World War II, Frank Swanner joined the 
United States Army, which brought him to Omaha Beach and the shores of 
Normandy on June 6, 1944. With honor and sacrifice, he and millions of 
men and women answered the call of duty. They have become known as the 
``Greatest Generation,'' and we are eternally grateful for their 
service.
  To some, Frank Swanner will be remembered as a community leader and 
fellow worshipper, and to others, an avid softball player and bowler. 
To some he will be remembered as a friend in the Wendy's Lunch Bunch, 
and to others, a comrade in the United States Army and World War II 
Veteran. He will long be remembered by his family and friends as a 
loving and compassionate person full of energy and charisma. Frank 
Swanner touched a number of lives, and all who knew him are forever 
blessed for the love and inspiration that has left a lasting impression 
in our hearts.
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to 
honor one of America's great heroes, Frank Swanner, for his honorable 
leadership and service to Northwest Florida and to this great Nation.

                          ____________________