The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 7

            A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for William A. Austin, former member of the House.

            Whereas, It is with deep appreciation for his long years of dedication to our state that we join together to acknowledge the passing of William Austin, who served this legislative body as a member in the 1950s.  His unselfishness, intellect, and talent also served Michigan through his work in the law and his service as a judge.  As we mark his devotion to our state, we also extend to his family our condolences on their loss; and

            Whereas, A native of Chicago who was raised and educated in Muskegon, William Austin studied at Olivet College, Ferris Institute, Cumberland University, and National University, where he earned his law degree.  Like so many of his generation, his career pursuits were put on hold for several years during World War II.  He served with distinction in the Pacific Theater of Operations from 1942 to 1945, earning the New Guinea Campaign Medal.  This spirit of patriotism and willingness to serve others never left him, and in 1952 he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives; and

            Whereas, During his service with the Sixty-seventh Legislature, Representative Austin contributed to the work of the committees on the Michigan Veterans Facility, Judiciary, Military and Veterans Affairs, and Public Safety.  Following his efforts as a legislator, he went on to compile a notable record of achievement in the law, including service as a judge.  The example of his unselfishness in the service of his country, community, and state is worthy of emulation; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of tribute to honor the memory of William A. Austin, who represented the Muskegon area in this legislative body in 1953-54; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Austin family as evidence of our sympathies.