SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 277

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize John Woodruff for his many accomplishments as an athlete, scholar, and dedicated public servant; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodruff represented the United States at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin and won the gold medal in the 800-meter race; and

WHEREAS, On July 17, 1937, Mr. Woodruff participated in track events in the Greater Texas and Pan American Exposition in Dallas; he won the 800-meter competition but was not officially recognized as having set a new world record; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodruff graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1939 and earned a graduate degree from New York University in 1941; he served honorably in the United States Army, both in World War II and as a lieutenant colonel commanding two battalions during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodruff spent his professional life in service to the people of the City of New York, working as a Children's Aid officer, a teacher, a welfare officer, a recreation director, and a parole officer; and

WHEREAS, John Woodruff overcame great obstacles to attain the highest levels of achievement, both personally and professionally; and

WHEREAS, A loving husband and father, he is the personification of hard work and determination, both athletically and academically, and he is an inspiration to all Americans; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodruff is recognized and celebrated today for his achievement in the 1937 Pan American games held at Fair Park in Dallas and for his contributions to the education, athletic development, and well-being of generations of children; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodruff's legacy is appreciated and recognized by the naming of a deserving young student to receive the newly created John Youie Woodruff Scholarship at Southern Methodist University in Dallas; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby congratulate John Woodruff on his victory in Dallas in 1937 and commend him for being a role model to people of all ages and for inspiring all Americans to persevere and strive to achieve their dreams; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. West

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 19, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate