HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY VETERAN RALPH CHECCHIO

On 2026-07-30, Representative Thomas H. Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-7) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY VETERAN RALPH CHECCHIO" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY VETERAN RALPH CHECCHIO

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 125 (Thursday, July 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 125 (Thursday, July 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E754-E755] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. ARMY VETERAN RALPH CHECCHIO ______ HON. THOMAS H. KEAN, JR. of new jersey in the house of representatives Thursday, July 30, 2026 Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of U.S. Army Veteran Ralph Checchio, a life-long Scotch Plains resident, who will be remembered for his service, character, and devotion to country and community. Ralph Checchio was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served honorably as a sergeant in the 27th Artillery Division during the Vietnam War, spending time in both Korea and Vietnam before being honorably discharged. In answering our Nation's call, he demonstrated the courage, duty, and sacrifice that define the American servicemember. At home in Scotch Plains, Ralph Checchio started a successful career as a local business owner and operator of Checchio Paving, leading a family-owned business for over five decades. Active in the community, he served as chair of the Scotch Plains Fourth of July Fireworks Committee, Annual Car Show Committee, chair of the Scotch Plains Construction Board of Appeals, and as a member of Scotch Plains 9/11 Memorial Committee. Ralph Checchio also devoted his time to fellow veteran causes, through his leadership and stewardship of the Memorial Day Parade Committee, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee, Veteran Banner Program Committee, Memorial Day Concert Committee, and Feed the Veterans Committee. Furthermore, Ralph Checchio's commitment to his community earned him the Americanism Award from the Scotch Plains UNICO, as well as the Good Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America. Ralph Checchio's life reflects the spirit of selfless service, whose strength of character and unwavering patriotism shaped our Nation. His story inspires all of us and serves as a reminder of the enduring values that strengthen our communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Ralph Checchio and his distinguished military service and civic commitment, while expressing our profound gratitude for his contributions to our state and to our Nation. We extend our deepest condolences to his family. [[Page E755]] ____________________