Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) sponsored legislation in the House of Representatives that designates Vassar’s post office as the “Corporal Christopher E. Esckelson Post Office Building.”  Kildee introduced legislation in May that would rename the Vassar post office at 203 North Main St. in memory of the 22-year old Marine and native of Vassar.  The bill was approved today by the House.

“The designation of Vassar’s post office in recognition of a hero like Corporal Esckelson is my great honor today,” said Kildee.  “Designating this postal facility will allow all who enter the post office a unique opportunity to be mindful of the sacrifices brave, young soldiers like this one have made and make today.”

Corporal Esckelson lost his life fighting in Al Anbar province of Iraq on December 28^th, 2006.  Esckelson, a squad leader of 12 Marines, died after suffering a direct hit while inspecting a truck in the war-torn city of Fallujah, the site of intense battles between U.S. Marines and insurgents in April and November of 2004. 

Esckelson was an accomplished athlete at Vassar High School who had ambitions to become a doctor.  He studied pre-medicine at Delta College prior to being stationed in Iraq. 

Congressional and executive approval is required for the designation of federal facilities.