Delegation Honors Roncalio for Lifelong Service

Washington, D.C. - Wyoming's Congressional delegation introduced legislation that would recognize Teno Roncalio of Rock Springs for his long and distinguished career of service to Wyoming and the nation. U.S. Senators Craig Thomas and Mike Enzi, both R-Wyo., introduced a bill in the Senate yesterday that would designate the United States Postal Service facility in Rock Springs as the Teno Roncalio Post OfficeBuilding. U.S. Representative Barbara Cubin, R-Wyo., introduced similar legislation in the House earlier this week. Roncalio, a Wyoming native, was the state's first five-term. Representative to the U.S. House serving from 1965 to 1966 and from 1971 to 1978. He served as a delegate to four Democratic National Conventions and was selected to serve for two years as a national Democratic committeeman. He was named to the U.S. Army Officer Candidates Hall of Fame for his service in World War II and also received a Silver Star for gallantry in action. Sweetwater County Commissioners passed a resolution in February to request the delegation's consideration of the proposal. The delegation was more than happy to follow through. "Wyoming has enjoyed a long history of public servants that served honorably in public office then continued to work in many positive ways for their local communities and the state," Thomas said. "Teno is one whose public contributions on behalf of Wyoming and his deeds after office are worthy of this special recognition." "Teno has served Wyoming and this nation with great honor and integrity throughout his public and private career," said Enzi. "We have worked together on some projects and on several occasions I have been appreciative of his willingness to share his opinions with me. He has vast experience, common sense and the desire to see the right thing done. He has certainly been a model and mentor to many." "Teno is one of those exceptional individuals who has spent his life serving the public interest and the great State of Wyoming," said Cubin. "During his time in Congress, he successfully brought Wyoming's concerns to the attention of this nation, and did so with great strength of heart and compassion. I truly believe Wyoming has been well served by his efforts, and I am pleased to see him honored in this way." Thomas and Enzi's bill was referred to the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee and the House could take action on Cubin's proposal as early as next week.