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Swalwell Bill to Name Dublin Post Office After Jim Kohnen Passes House of Representatives

September 10, 2014

H.R. 1671, a bill introduced by U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell to name the U.S. Post Office in Dublin as the "James ‘Jim' Kohnen Post Office" passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 398-0.

Swalwell introduced the legislation to honor the life of Tri-Valley public servant and 30-year Army veteran Dr. Jim Kohnen. Dr. Kohnen passed away on May 29, 2012.

"Naming the post office in Dublin after Dr. Jim Kohnen is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the Tri-Valley community," said Swalwell. "Dr. Kohnen served our country in the U.S. Army and didn't stop serving his beloved community when he retired, becoming a high school teacher and joining local boards and organizations dedicated to improving the Tri-Valley. I'm honored that with the passage of this bill we are one step closer to naming this post office after a truly deserving local hero."

The legislation was co-sponsored by all 53 Democratic and Republican Members of California's congressional delegation. The post office facility is located at 6937 Village Parkway in Dublin, CA.

Dr. Kohnen retired from the U.S. Army Reserve as a Colonel after over 30 years of service in the Corps of Engineers. During his service, he graduated from the U.S. Army War College, the Air War College, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, earning his doctorate in education.

Dr. Kohnen completed his career by serving as a high school teacher at San Leandro High School, as an elected or appointment official on five boards, and as a volunteer with a variety of organizations including the Boy Scouts and Dublin Historical Preservation Association.