Robert Young III

Robert A. Young was a Democratic politician from Missouri who served five terms in the United States House of Representatives, representing the Second Congressional District. His political career spanned several decades, beginning at the local level and culminating in his election to Congress in 1976. Young was known for his advocacy of public works projects and his contributions to education and infrastructure in Missouri. He was also a decorated military veteran, having served in World War II, and remained active in community affairs after his retirement from Congress in 1987.

Early life and career

Robert Anton Young III was born on November 22, 1923, in Missouri, where he was the eldest of nine children in his family. He received his early education in parochial schools located in St. Louis County. Young attended McBride High School and graduated from Normandy High School in 1941. Following his graduation, he joined the U.S. Army during World War II, serving from February 1943 until November 1945. He participated in significant military operations, including the D-Day landings at Utah Beach and the Battle of the Bulge as part of General George Patton's 3rd Army. For his bravery in combat, he was awarded several honors, including the Bronze Star, the African-European Campaign Medal with multiple battle stars, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the French Croix-de-Guerre with Palm.

After his military service, Young returned to civilian life and pursued a career as a union pipefitter, joining the Pipefitters and Plumbers Local 562, AFL-CIO, in St. Louis. His political career began in 1952 when he was elected as the Democratic Committeeman for Airport Township in St. Louis County, a position he held until 1977. In 1956, he was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, where he served for six years. Young's political journey continued when he was elected to the Missouri Senate in 1962, serving for 14 years. During his tenure in the state legislature, he was instrumental in supporting initiatives that led to the establishment of the St. Louis Junior College District and the University of Missouri–St. Louis. His contributions to the state were recognized multiple times with the St. Louis Globe-Democrat's Award for Meritorious Service.

In 1976, Young transitioned to national politics when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Missouri's Second Congressional District. His election marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his political career, where he would serve for over a decade.

House tenure

Young's first term in the House of Representatives began in 1977, and he was subsequently re-elected in 1978 and 1980 with relative ease. However, following the 1980 census, Missouri lost one of its congressional districts, leading to significant changes in Young's electoral landscape. His district was redrawn, resulting in the loss of his share of St. Louis and pushing him into more conservative areas to the west. Despite these challenges, he managed to secure 56 percent of the vote in 1982. The political climate shifted further in 1984 when he faced a strong challenge from Republican State Representative Jack Buechner, who benefited from the popularity of President Ronald Reagan, who garnered nearly 60 percent of the vote in Young's district. Young narrowly won that election but faced Buechner again in 1986, ultimately losing by a margin of 7,400 votes.

During his time in Congress, Young was a member of several key committees, including Public Works and Transportation, Aviation, Water Resources, and Science and Technology. His legislative focus was heavily oriented towards public works projects that aimed to enhance infrastructure and services in his district and throughout Missouri. Notable projects he supported included the landscaping of the Gateway Arch, the renovation of the Old Post Office, the establishment of the light-rail mass transit MetroLink system, the construction of the Thomas F. Eagleton Federal Courthouse, the expansion of Lambert Airport, and the development of Lock and Dam 26 in Alton, Illinois. His efforts in these areas earned him recognition within the construction industry, leading to accolades such as being named "Construction Industry Man of the Year" in 1981 by the St. Louis Construction News and Review and Pride, Inc.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Young was dedicated to advancing public works initiatives that would benefit both his constituents and the broader community in Missouri. His work on various committees allowed him to influence legislation related to transportation, infrastructure, and scientific research, reflecting his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in his district. Young's focus on public works was not only about immediate benefits but also aimed at long-term development and sustainability for the region.

In addition to his legislative work, Young remained engaged in community service and local affairs after leaving Congress in 1987. He was a life member of organizations such as Amvets and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and he actively participated in American Legion Post 338 in Overland, Missouri. His commitment to veterans' issues and community service continued to be a significant aspect of his post-political life. Young also served on the Board of the James S. McDonnell USO and was a member of the St. Louis Airport Commission, further demonstrating his dedication to public service.

In recognition of his contributions, the federal building in downtown St. Louis was renamed the Robert A. Young Federal Building in 1988, honoring his legacy and service to the community. Young received various awards throughout his life, including the John H. Poelker Transportation Progress Award, an honorary Doctor of Humanities from the Logan School of Chiropractic, and the "Able Helmsman" of the Year award from the Greater St. Louis Port Council, among others.

Robert A. Young passed away on October 17, 2007, due to liver disease, leaving behind a legacy of public service and community involvement that spanned several decades. His contributions to Missouri's political landscape and his commitment to improving infrastructure and public services are remembered as key aspects of his life and career.