U.S. Senator Chris Dodd

[Page: S2219]

Mr. DODD. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a great citizen, a true humanitarian and a dear friend--William F. O'Neill, Jr., of Norwich, CT.

On March 14, Bill will be receiving the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Connecticut Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America for a lifetime of humanitarian and altruistic deeds.

A World War II veteran, Bill has, and continues to make, untold contributions to the people of Connecticut. He's been a community activist and humanitarian throughout his life, holding leadership positions in the Norwich Chamber of Commerce; the Knights of Columbus; the Lions' Club; March of Dimes; and the Norwich Centenary Committee, to name only a few.

Bill has dedicated his life to making his community a better place for people to live and raise a family. Perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the founding of the Rose Arts Festival. Every year thousands of nutmeggers flock to Norwich to take part in this community event, where they enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts, and good food.

Bill has been recognized on numerous occasions for his tireless efforts, perhaps most notably in 1988, when he was presented with the Knight of St. Gregory Award by Pope John Paul II, for his many years of service to the Roman Catholic Church.

Most recently Bill received the Successful Aging Award from Connecticut Care, which honors those over age 70 who continue to play an active and vital role in the affairs of their community. Clearly, Bill has touched hundreds, if not thousands, of lives.

I have been fortunate to know Bill and his family for many years, and I can attest that he is a man of great integrity, character, and talent.

But, Bill is more than just a close, personal friend, he was also a dear friend to my mother and father. Currently, Bill is the chairman of the Thomas and Grace Dodd Memorial Scholarship--in memory of my parents.

Bill's work on behalf of my parents' and their memory is something for which I will always be grateful. But, I am just one of many who have been touched by Bill's generosity and acts of kindness.

Connecticut is indeed privileged to be able to call William F. O'Neill, Jr. one of its own, and I join all of those who have known Bill in wishing him congratulations and the very best for the future.