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2004 SESSION

044502472
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 521
Offered March 12, 2004
Commending Bernard A. Gill, Jr.
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Patrons-- Purkey, Albo, Athey, Black, Jones, S.C., Landes, Lingamfelter, McDonnell, O'Bannon, Parrish, Reid, Suit, Tata, Wardrup and Welch; Senators: Blevins, Rerras and Wagner
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Unanimous consent to introduce
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WHEREAS, a native of Norfolk, Bernard A. "Barney" Gill attended Granby High School, where he led the football team to a record 34 straight wins and three state championships; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill, a top national athlete in football, baseball, and basketball, attended the University of Virginia, where he became one of the top football players in America; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill served with great distinction in the United States Army in Vietnam and in Korea, receiving two Bronze stars, seven air medals, a combat infantry badge, and a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, among other military honors; and

WHEREAS, as a captain in the military in 1960, Barney Gill was the head coach of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (S.H.A.P.E.) Indians football team, coached the All-Navy women's basketball team, and became the Atlantic Fleet recreation director; and

WHEREAS, in 1970 Barney Gill retired as a colonel in the Army's Airborne Rangers, 82nd Airborne Division; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill's devotion to coaching remained strong, as well as his commitment to serving the community; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill coached at the United States Military Academy at West Point with legendary coach Earl "Red" Blaik, where he assisted in the development of All-American players and Heisman Trophy winner Peter Dawkins; and

WHEREAS, in the late 1970s, Barney Gill served as executive director of the United Drug Abuse Council, coordinating anti-drug abuse efforts in Tidewater, Virginia; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill established fitness centers and programs for paralyzed and handicapped veterans and employees, visiting 172 Veteran Administration hospitals, and served as chairman and organizer of the Veterans Administration National Wheelchair Games in 1985-1986; and

WHEREAS, Barney Gill served on the President's Council on Physical Fitness and the United States Olympic Committee; and

WHEREAS, through service to his community, the Commonwealth, and the nation, Barney Gill has had a substantial impact on the lives of countless young athletes, soldiers, veterans, and citizens; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Bernard A. Gill, Jr., for his outstanding lifetime achievements and numerous contributions to his country and the Commonwealth; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Bernard A. Gill, Jr., as an expression of the General Assembly’s appreciation and respect for his outstanding career of service.