Chuck Steele makes it into the Congressional Record
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-6) signs a proclamation for the Congressional Record on April 28 in honor of Chuck Steele’s 70 years of service to the American Legion and the Manchester community. Photo courtesy Rep. Debbie Dingell’s Washington office.
by Marsha Chartrand
It’s been quite a week for Chuck Steele. He celebrated his 93rd birthday on Sunday knowing that he is now named in the Congressional Record for his extraordinary community involvement spanning 70-plus years.
On Friday, our Congresswoman, Debbie Dingell, entered this proclamation into the Congressional Record:
“Mister Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charles Steele, a resident of Manchester, Michigan, on the occasion of his 93rd birthday. His dedication and patriotism to his country and to his city is worthy of commendation.
“Born in 1930, Charles moved to Manchester shortly after his birth. During high school and after graduation, he was a member of the Navy Reserve. Shortly after an honorable discharge from the Navy Reserve, Charles was drafted into the Army in 1951, where he stayed until being honorably discharged in 1953. In April of 1953 he joined the Manchester American Legion, Post 117.
“Charles’ dedication to Post 117 and the veterans’ community over the last 70 years cannot be understated. He was heavily involved in the construction of their new hall in the 1970s, which for decades served as a popular location for community events, parties, weddings, and bingo games. The last seven decades has seen him serve as the Commander of Post 117 on five separate occasions, as well as being the Post Chaplain for the last 15 years. As Chaplain, he has spoken at many of the Memorial Day Services in the area, as well as attending military funerals where he presents the flag to the families of fallen veterans.
“Over the last 70 years, Charles’ involvement in his community has been visible to everyone outside of the veteran community as well. He started the Color Guard Team that has been present at every Manchester High School football game since 1953. He missed his first game in 70 years last season but is hopeful to be back this fall. Starting with the Centennial Celebration of the City of Manchester in 1967, there are around 70 flags that are put up and taken down daily on holidays and special occasions on Main Street. For 55 years, he has helped with the flags. Most recently and when he is available, he drives the truck with the flags.
“Mister Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Charles Steele’s lifetime of service to this nation and his community. His commitment and dedication go beyond Legion Post 117. He has demonstrated the same qualities to his community, Emanuel United Church of Christ, the Manchester Athletic Boosters, and his family. We thank him for his service and wish him the happiest of birthdays!”
“It’s a pretty big deal to be listed in the congressional record,” Chuck said. “I think a lot more people probably deserve this honor but I’m very proud and happy to receive it.”
He has also heard from our local Michigan State Senator, Jeff Irwin (District 15), that he will receive a similar recognition from the Michigan House of Representatives and the Governor. Not a bad birthday gift at all!
Chuck Steele is all smiles sitting in his favorite armchair, celebrating his 93rd birthday, and displaying his copy of the commendation in the Congressional Record by Rep. Debbie Dingell.
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