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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of the most distinguished citizens in the history of Colorado Springs, Mr. William Hybl.
Bill has not only served Colorado Springs with his successful business and non-profit careers, he has served our nation and globally represented us as well. From his service in the United States Air Force, to his term as the President of the United States Olympic Committee, to his time representing us in the United Nations, and, particularly, to his distinguished tenure as the Chairman of the U.S. Commission on Public Diplomacy, Bill exemplifies the notion of selfless service for the betterment of our nation.
That's why I am delighted that Bill is being honored by the Japanese Government with the Imperial Decoration of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon. This distinguished award is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed by the Japanese government and Bill has earned this distinction by cultivating a deep and meaningful bond with the Japanese people.
During his time as USOC President, Bill led Team USA in the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. He also nurtures many diplomatic and cultural exchanges between Japan and Colorado. Among the greatest of these is the thriving Sister City relationship between Colorado Springs and Fujiyoshida.
For these reasons, among many others, I am honored to recognize Bill Hybl and join my fellow citizens in Colorado's Fifth Congressional District in congratulating him on this tremendous honor.
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