[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 13]
[Senate]
[Page 18099]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                     TRIBUTE TO IVAN BELL WOODFORD

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Ivan 
Bell Woodford on being selected to serve as grand marshal for the city 
of Reno's Veterans Day Parade. As Nevada's oldest living World War II 
veteran, there is no doubt Mr. Woodford deserves this honor. It gives 
me great pleasure to recognize his years of service to both the United 
States of America and our great State.
  Mr. Woodford grew up at Lake Elsinore, working on the family ranch. 
He later enlisted in the United States Navy in 1942 as a Seabee. 
Throughout World War II, he served at Pearl Harbor and Midway Island, 
operating heavy equipment and cranes to clear debris from the 
destruction of the war. His unit was later stationed in the 
Philippines.
  In 1946, Mr. Woodford established his residency in Reno, working for 
local excavating companies as a heavy machinery operator. He worked for 
more than 30 years in this industry, helping complete various projects 
throughout Reno and Lake Tahoe. He aided in laying the foundation of 
housing pads across Reno, leveling the ground for construction projects 
near Lake Tahoe, drudging what is now Virginia Lake, and cleaning 
irrigation ditches to develop Spanish Springs Valley. He also worked 
heavy machinery during the development of Interstate 80 and many other 
roads throughout Washoe Valley, leaving his mark in northern Nevada for 
generations to come. No doubt, he witnessed and contributed to some of 
the largest growth and expansion throughout the area.
  His many contributions to making our State the best it can be, as 
well as his service to this country, demonstrates his generous 
character. His actions represent only the greatest of Nevada's values 
and place him among the outstanding men and women who have valiantly 
defended our nation. Our State is fortunate to have someone like Mr. 
Woodford to serve as a role model.
  As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, I recognize 
that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor the brave 
individuals who serve our Nation, but also to ensure they are cared for 
when they return home. I remain committed to upholding this promise for 
veterans, like Mr. Woodford, in Nevada and throughout the Nation.
  Mr. Woodford has demonstrated professionalism, commitment to 
excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of the United 
States Navy. His work throughout Nevada is invaluable. I am both 
humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow 
Nevadan. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. 
Woodford for all of his accomplishments, as well as his participation 
in the city of Reno's Veterans Day Parade.

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