Washington, D.C. -  In a bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson, the U.S. House of Representatives today approved a resolution naming the post office in Clinton in honor of Illini legend Gene Vance.

“I take great pleasure in being able to play a part in getting a great man this long overdue recognition,” Rep. Johnson said. “Gene Vance is of course a sports icon in both Clinton and at the University of Illinois, but more importantly is a gentleman and an example to us all.”

The measure passed overwhelmingly on a voice vote Tuesday afternoon and now awaits action by the Senate and President Bush.

A native of Clinton, Mr. Vance was a member of the 1942-43 UI basketball team known as “The Whiz Kids.” Mr. Vance is the only surviving member of this team that went 17-1 and won their second straight Big Ten conference title. While the team earned the right to compete for the NCAA Championship, a greater calling arose. The Army drafted three of the “Whiz Kids” for World War II. In a showing of unity, the team decided that if they could not compete together, they would not compete at all.

In June, 1943, Mr. Vance answered the call to duty, joined the infantry and served 16 months in Europe until the end of the war.

Upon returning home, Mr. Vance played for Chicago, Tri-Cities and Milwaukee in the National Basketball Association. His basketball career was again interrupted when he was called to duty in Korea in 1952.

In 1967, Mr. Vance became the UI athletic director, where he served until 1972. He completed his career in service to the UI Foundation.

Last year, Mr. Vance was named to the UI Basketball program’s All-Century Team and is the oldest member of this 20-member unit.

The post office designation was promoted in part by Joe Alexander, a one-time aide to former Rep. Tom Ewing and a lifelong Clinton resident. Alexander is also a graduate of Clinton High School and was a member of the UI track and cross-country teams. Alexander’s father and Gene Vance’s father worked together on the Illinois Central Railroad.

“Gene Vance is one of my heroes and one of the finest individuals ever to come from Clinton,” Alexander said. “Gene’s phenomenal career stretched from Clinton High School to a 60-year career with the University of Illinois, to the NBA to his faithful service to his country in World War II and Korea. I would like to thank Congressman Johnson who enjoyed the  overwhelming support of the U.S. House of Representatives for honoring Gene in this very special way. I look forward to prompt passage in the U.S. Senate and the signature of President Bush.

Rep. Johnson said Gene Vance remains a legend in Clinton as well in the minds of the Illini family.

“His athletic ability, his civility, his sense of teamwork and his willingness to serve his country are attributes to which we can all aspire,” Rep. Johnson said. “My sincere congratulations to Gene Vance and his family.”

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