RECOGNIZING MR. THOMAS "MUCKA" McGRATH

RECOGNIZING MR. THOMAS "MUCKA" McGRATH

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 48 (Tuesday, March 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E226] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MR. THOMAS ``MUCKA'' McGRATH ______ HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH of massachusetts in the house of representatives Tuesday, March 17, 2026 Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Thomas ``Mucka'' McGrath, President of the South Boston Citizens Association, a steadfast steward of Boston's history and a tireless champion of community in South Boston, Massachusetts. For years, Tom McGrath has stood at the center of some of our city's most meaningful traditions, including the annual Evacuation Day commemorations at Dorchester Heights. As organizer and guiding force behind this and many other events, Tom has worked diligently to ensure that the legacy of March 17, 1776--the day British forces evacuated Boston following General George Washington's successful fortification of the Heights--is duly honored and celebrated. This year marks the 250th anniversary of that historic moment. It is a milestone in the history of Boston, and in the founding story of our great Nation. Through Tom's leadership, the Evacuation Day ceremonies have grown into a fitting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who secured one of the first major victories of the American Revolutionary War. He has helped transform remembrance into renewal by bringing together veterans, elected officials, students, families, and neighbors in a shared celebration of American independence and Boston pride. Tom's work extends far beyond event planning. As President of the South Boston Citizens Association, he has dedicated himself to strengthening civic life in our community. He understands that history is not simply something we commemorate once a year; it is something we live out in how we serve one another. Under his leadership, the South Boston Citizens Association has continued its longstanding mission of promoting civic engagement, neighborhood pride, and respect for the traditions that define South Boston. In a rapidly changing city, Tom McGrath has been a steady hand, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of memory and that future generations understand the sacrifices that built today's community. His commitment reflects a deep love of neighborhood and country, and an abiding belief that local traditions are the foundation of our national identity. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that our freedom was secured at Dorchester Heights. Thanks to leaders like Tom McGrath, the spirit of that victory endures 250 years later. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Thomas ``Mucka'' McGrath for his service to South Boston and to the City of Boston, and in thanking him for preserving and honoring the legacy of Dorchester Heights for generations to come. ____________________