Title
Proclamation honoring Pittsburgh-born Iraq War veteran Scott Winkler for representing the United States in the 2008 Paralympics.
Body
WHEREAS, Allegheny County is blessed to have ordinary citizens who commit extraordinary feats and who serve as role models to countless individuals; and
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh-born Scott Winkler has represented the United States in a number of facets, and has proven himself to be a hero, even in the most dire of circumstances; and
WHEREAS, while serving the United States Army in Tikrit, Iraq, Mr. Winkler suffered a fall that resulted in paralysis; and
WHEREAS, not one to let even the most extreme of challenges derail him, Mr. Winkler began training as a shot put and discus thrower at the 2006 United States Olympic Committee's Paralympic Military Sports Camp; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Winkler's natural talent has earned him multiple records and awards, including a gold medal and bronze medal at the 2007 Para Pan American Games, a world record in the F4 Shot Put at the 2007 United States Paralympics Track and Field Championships, as well as first place and an American Shot Put record at the 2008 United States Paralympics Track and Field Trials; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Winkler represented the United States at the 2008 Paralympic Games, held in Beijing, China in September 2008, where he earned fifth place in the Men's Shot Put event, during which he beat his own personal record, throwing an astonishing 11.27 meters;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council hereby commends Scott Winkler for representing the United States as both a soldier and an athlete. We are proud and honored to present you with this proclamation, and wish you continued success in what will undoubtedly be a very bright future.