Recognizing William ``bill'' Leonard Chin, Former Cathay Post No. 186 Commander and World War II Veteran

Floor Speech

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Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize William ``Bill'' Leonard Chin for his many years of dedication to our country, both through his military service and active involvement within the Seattle Chinese-American and Veterans communities.

Bill valiantly served during World War II in the U.S. Army with the 93rd Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron in the Central European Campaign and the Battle of Rhineland, and his dedication to service continued long after his active military duty. Upon graduating from Seattle University, Bill pursued a career as an accountant at Boeing and then as a life and health insurance broker, where he spent over 50 years serving numerous clients in the Seattle Chinese community. He displayed exemplary work ethic and was widely known for his willingness to help others.

Outside of his career, Bill carried this same unceasing devotion to serving those around him. He played an instrumental role in creating the Oriental Restaurant Association in 1970, which provided a healthcare plan for Chinese restaurant workers. He was also a committed member of Cathay Post No. 186, where he served as Commander and contributed to fundraising efforts for the Kin On Nursing Home and youth scholarships. Additionally, Bill served as the English secretary for the Gee How Oak Tin Family Association and the Bing Kung Association, and as an officer of the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce. He left a resounding impact on all those around him and was a true leader of the various communities he was part of.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Bill Chin for a lifetime of service to the United States of America and to his community. I am deeply grateful for his important efforts towards protecting our country, advancing healthcare access, and fostering connection. His legacy will not be forgotten.

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