Robert A. Young

U.S. Representative Missouri

What is Robert A. Young known for?

Robert Anton Young III, a notable alumnus of Normandy High School in St. Louis, Missouri, was a key figure in American politics. Born in St. Louis, Missouri on November 27, 1923, Young's life was dedicated to public service, community improvement, and family.

Before his illustrious political career, Young served the United States valiantly in World War II. From 1943 to 1945, he was part of the U.S. Army, even landing under fire on Utah Beach on D-Day in 1944. His military contributions did not go unnoticed as he was awarded the Bronze Star for valor in combat, the African-European Campaign Medal with Five Battlestars, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the French Croix-de-Guerre with Palm for D-Day.

Young's political journey started in 1952 when he was elected as a Democratic Committeeman for Airport Township in St. Louis County. With time, his influence grew, eventually leading to his election to the Missouri House of Representatives in 1956 and the Missouri State Senate six years later. During his tenure, he championed education, particularly the establishment of the University of Missouri–St. Louis, and the creation of the St. Louis Junior College District.

In 1977, Young rose to national prominence when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. His tenure lasted for five terms, from 1977 to 1987, during which he served on multiple key committees such as Public Works and Transportation, Aviation, Water Resources, and Science and Technology. As a congressman, he was known for his strong support for public works projects aimed at benefiting his district and the state of Missouri. One of his most notable achievements was his role in the development of the light-rail mass transit MetroLink system.

Not only a politician and a soldier, but Young was also a union pipefitter by trade, a family man married to Irene Slawson, and a father to three children. Upon his passing on October 17, 2007, his legacy lived on in his contributions to Missouri and the United States.

For more information about Robert A. Young's life and work, please visit the U.S. House of Representatives website or his official Mocavo page.