The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“TRIBUTE TO STEVE YOUNG” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Labor was published in the Senate section on pages S287-S288 on Jan. 14, 2003.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRIBUTE TO STEVE YOUNG
Mr. VOINOVICH. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Steve Young, the National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, who passed away on January 9, 2002. One of the most rewarding things about serving in the government is having the opportunity to meet some very special people, and Steve was one of them. Every so often in life a person is fortunate enough to cross paths with someone who makes them feel good about being in their presence, someone who is caring, genuine, sincere and who brings a special life to the lives of others. That was Steve Young and I feel blessed to have known him. Steve, a native of Upper Sandusky, OH and graduate of upper Sandusky High School, is survived by his wife, Denise; his two sons, Steven David and Staten Daniel; ;his three sisters Gloria Steurer, Kay Baker, and Deborah Smith and his mother, Lillian Heffelfinger.
Serving as a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, F.O.P., for 26 years, Steve dedicated his life and career to law enforcement. His distinguished membership included eleven years as President of the Ohio State lodge, four years as National Vice President, and 17 months as National President.
Steve's understanding of the rigorous demands placed on law enforcement officers who protect our citizens each and every day made him an extremely effective and well-respected leader. His innovative leadership style produced a list of accomplishments that set a new standard for success.
During his career, Steve helped to create the Ohio Labor Council, with more than 8,000 members, to improve the effectiveness of labor-
management negotiations within police forces. Remarkably, fourteen States across our Nation are using this methodology as a model for improving labor-management relations. He also implemented the Critical Incident Response program, to rapidly assist officers psychologically damaged in the line of duty, a program that has been implemented across the country.
It came as no surprise that Steve's numerous accomplishments led to his overwhelming election as the National President of the F.O.P. in August 2001. During his tenure, Steve's enthusiasm, spirit, and love of law enforcement never diminished. In fact, he continued to dedicate his career to the citizens of Ohio serving as Lieutenant in the Marion City Police Department, until his passing.
One would not know by looking at his achievements, but his term as President of the F.O.P. was all too brief. Under his Presidency, the F.O.P. developed a close relationship with the Bush Administration, which led to Steve's appointment to the Homeland Security Advisory Council. Thanks to Steve, the F.O.P. will now play an important role in the transition as the various law enforcement agencies are folded into the new Department of Homeland Security.
Under Steve's presidency and at the request of the Administration, the F.O.P. was asked to serve as a Charter member of the National Citizens Corps Council. This group is dedicated to bringing together national leaders from first responder groups, emergency management agencies, volunteer service organizations, State and local governments, and the private sector in an effort to engage citizens in homeland security and promote community and family safety practices across the country.
Recognizing the importance of family and the commitment that law enforcement officers make each day, Steve worked with Secretary Elaine Chao to obtain a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor so that the F.O.P. could design and administer a scholarship program for the spouses of fallen officers.
It is evident that Steve Young served our country and his community with honor, courage, and distinction. However, in times of great loss, words often fail to comfort the anguish loved ones feel for their departed. I can only hope that the entire Young family will find solace in the thoughts and prayers of loved ones, friends, and the countless other lives that Steve touched.
May God bless Steve Young and his entire family.
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