Turner Introduces Bill to Rename Xenia Post Office in Honor of Gil Whitney

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Mike Turner (OH10), joined by [the entire Ohio Delegation], introduced legislation to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 189 East Main Street in Xenia, Ohio, as the “Gilman ‘Gil’ Whitney Post Office Building.” 

Tomorrow, 52 years ago, Gil Whitney, a longtime Dayton-area broadcaster and trusted weather forecaster, issued a warning during the April 3, 1974, tornado that is widely credited with helping save countless lives in Xenia, Ohio. His voice became a source of calm and credibility during one of the most devastating moments in the community’s history, and his legacy continues to be remembered across the Miami Valley. 

“Gil Whitney was more than a broadcaster — he was a trusted voice for our community when it mattered most,” said Congressman Mike Turner. “As we remember the lives impacted by the 1974 tornado, this designation would ensure Gil Whitney’s legacy continues to be recognized by future generations. During the 1974 tornado that devastated Xenia, his warning helped save lives and left a lasting mark on the Miami Valley. Renaming the Xenia Post Office in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man whose service to our region will not be forgotten.”

“Gil Whitney is a local hero who saved countless lives and protected families across Ohio with his reporting,” Rep. Carey said. “I am proud to support the effort to honor his legacy in the Miami Valley and preserve Whitney's story for generations."

“Because of Gil Whitney’s calm and timely actions, thousands of Buckeye families took critical steps to stay safe during the 1974 tornado that ripped through Xenia,” said Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02). “Gil was a beloved local broadcaster, a talented weatherman, and a respected civic figure, and I am proud to join my colleagues in this resolution to ensure his legacy lives on for decades to come.”

“Gil Whitney’s warning on April 3, 1974, helped save lives as the deadliest tornado of the Super Outbreak tore through Xenia,” said Congressman Warren Davidson. “He directed countless families to safety, and 52 years later, his legacy lives on. Renaming this post office in Gil’s honor recognizes him for always being the person Xenia and Ohio could count on.”

“I’m proud to support Congressman Turner’s bipartisan legislation to rename the Xenia Post Office in honor of Gil Whitney. This is a worthwhile effort to honor a trusted local leader and recognize his life-saving actions during the historic Xenia tornado,” said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.