RECOGNIZING BANNOCK COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING

On 2026-04-28, Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING BANNOCK COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING" in the Senate. The speech addressed foreign policy and also covered defense, veterans affairs. It referenced legislation: S2076.

RECOGNIZING BANNOCK COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 74 (Tuesday, April 28, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 28, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2076] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ______ RECOGNIZING BANNOCK COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, with my colleagues Senator Jim Risch and Representative Mike Simpson, we recognize the 100-year anniversary of the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building, on North Johnson Avenue in Pocatello, ID. This beautiful and beloved building adds to the appeal and history of the community. Architect Frank Paradice, Jr., designed the timeless brick building with a tiled roof and brickwork accents, and it was built by contractor Alex Mathers from 1924 to 1926. As the Idaho Heritage Trust described, ``This site is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Lincoln-Johnson Avenue Residential Historic District, though it stands in stark contrast to the typical craftsman/bungalow-style single family homes that typify the rest of the neighborhood.'' Earlier this year, community members came together to celebrate the grand reopening of the building after it underwent renovation following considerable water damage. Many worked to secure resources and restore this local asset. Over the past century, the building has been a cherished community treasure for the veterans and military families it pays tribute to, as well as for many others in the community who have used the building for special events. The Bannock County Veterans Memorial Association maintains the veterans memorial building, which is a community center and hub for veterans' support services. Numerous veterans organizations hold regular meetings in its meeting and event space. Local residents have also hosted wedding receptions and other private events in the building over the years, and it has been the backdrop for photographs and other gatherings marking personal milestones and celebrations. The building also houses a memorial museum for those who have served in all branches of the military, with local servicemembers donating artifacts to its collection. An official replica of Pocatello native Sergeant James Edmund Johnson's Medal of Honor is among the esteemed items displayed at the museum. Sergeant Johnson was one of 48 awardees with significant Idaho connections to receive our country's highest military award for heroism by those serving with America's Armed Forces. His medal is a reminder of the bravery, grit, and unrelenting responsibility to others on which our great State and country are built. At the February 2026 reopening of the building, Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building historian Miguel Dominic recognized the veteran volunteers who have given immensely in service to our country and continue to sustain the building and serve the community. He reflected, ``May this memorial building continue to stand as a beacon of honor, fellowship and unwavering ideals for generations to come. As we stand together in this memorial building, we honor not only the heroes whose names and sacrifices are remembered here, but also the heroes who continue to serve within these very walls.'' We wish the residents of Bannock County and Pocatello well, as we acknowledge the century the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building has memorialized Idaho Veterans, while framing countless, valuable conversations, achievements, and celebrations. Congratulations to the Pocatello community and Bannock County on this considerable milestone of an Idaho gem. ____________________