[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 12]
[House]
[Page 16788]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO JOHN MILTON KRINER II

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, on October 9, 2011, a 
good friend and long-time scouter, John Milton Kriner II, passed away 
at the age of 53. A life marked with accomplishment and overcoming 
barriers, John was born in 1958 with Down syndrome. Despite life's 
challenges, John and his parents, John and Betta, always focused on the 
possible, not the limitations.
  He graduated from State College Area High School, went on to receive 
certification from Centre County Vocational and Hiram G. Andrews 
Technical Schools, and was later employed by the State Area College 
School District. A member of Troop 339, Boy Scouts of America, John 
received the Eagle Scout with Gold Palm, Silver Beaver Award, Unit 
Commissioner, Honorary Camp Director, and Wood Badge Beaver Awards. He 
attended four BSA national jamborees, serving as a staff member, was a 
Vigil Honor member of the Monaken Lodge, Order of the Arrow, and an 
honorary member of Penn State University's Alpha Phi Omega. John was a 
member of the Grace Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher, 
greeter, and was a member of Disciples Sunday school class. He was also 
a State Special Olympic silver, bronze, and gold medal winner in 
swimming. John Kriner was a true inspiration to all who knew him. Well 
done, Scouter.

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