[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E613]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF TOMMIE FRYE AND HIS SERVICE TO THE UNITED 
                  STATES OF AMERICA AND HIS COMMUNITY

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                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2024

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of 
Tommie Frye, a resident of Ypsilanti, Michigan and veteran of the 
Vietnam War, and to mourn his passing. His dedication to his country 
and local community over a long and exceptional life is worthy of 
commendation.
  Tommie served honorably as a medic in the United States Army during 
the Vietnam War. He met his wife, Sally Frye, at church while stationed 
at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. After finishing his service, he 
worked at Ford until his retirement.
  Throughout his life, Tommie gave much of his time, energy, and 
resources to Parkridge Community Center in Ypsilanti. He worked 
tirelessly with the young people in his community as a beloved mentor, 
helping to keep them away from trouble and steering them towards 
successful futures. His unwavering support as a donor and fundraiser 
was also vital to Parkridge Community Center's ability to continue 
operating as a pillar of support for the young people of Ypsilanti.
  Tommie's faith was a crucial part of him. He was a member of Mt. 
Olive Church of God in Christ in Ypsilanti, Michigan for his entire 
life. He was a pillar of the Mt. Olive community, serving as a deacon, 
usher, and trustee. He lived out his faith in every aspect of his life 
through his service, generosity, love, and compassion for everyone 
around him. His faith in God gave him strength in his final days as he 
went to claim his eternal reward.
  Tommie is survived and remembered by his loving wife Sally, to whom 
he was married for 52 years, his four children, and his thirteen 
grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 
life of Tommie Frye. Tommie was an incredible representation of 
answering our nation's highest calling. He served his country with 
honor in Vietnam and afterward throughout his local community, bringing 
joy, enthusiasm, and love to everyone he met along the way. We mourn 
with his loved ones and thank them for sharing Tommie with us.

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