Trent Kelly

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Jonathan Douglas Shelton, who passed away on Sunday, August 30, in Tupelo, Mississippi, at age 46. Jon Shelton was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, on May 21, 1974. He was raised in Tupelo, graduating from Tupelo High School after standout careers in high school football and powerlifting. Jon then attended the University of Mississippi, where he continued his studies for his Juris Doctorate. During his youth, Jon also served as the executive coordinator of Mississippi Young Democrats. Following school, Jon moved back to his hometown of Tupelo, where he owned and operated a successful law firm for many years. In 2004, the Lee County Courier chose Jon as Lee County's ``Best Man.'' and Lee County's ``Best Attorney'' four times in 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016. Outside of his successful career, Jon was an avid BMX bicycle racer, winning the Mississippi State Championship and achieving a national ranking for many years. Through his law firm and his service to his church, East Heights Baptist Church, Jon was a caring soul whose proudest moments were helping those around him. Left to cherish Jon's memory is his mother, Dr. Judy Woods; his stepfather, Buck Woods; his brother, Mayor Jason L. Shelton; his nephew; and a host of cousins, family, and friends.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the U.S. Military service of Robert Wilson who is a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal. Robert ``Bobby'' Wilson, a native of Tupelo, Mississippi, volunteered for the U.S. Army in December 1951. Once he completed Basic Training in Hawaii, he entered the Korean War. On February 6, 1953, Mr. Wilson was on patrol with other members of his company 1\1/2\ miles in Chinese territory called the Coonwah Valley. On that frigid night with the temperature below zero, he and his fellow men were attacked by the enemy who were firing mortar rounds. Mr. Wilson was seriously injured and needed to be transported to receive medical treatment. He was picked up by a medic and placed on a stretcher. Another firefight ensued before he could be taken to a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital where he would be treated for 18 shrapnel wounds over the course of 39 days. His courage and bravery under fire earned him the Purple Heart Medal. It is my honor to recognize Mr. Wilson for his service to America and his pledge to protect our freedoms. In December 1953, Mr. Wilson completed his military service and returned home to his wife, Tomicene. The high school sweethearts remained in Tupelo where they raised two boys, David and Robert. The Wilsons were married 64 years before Tomicene passed away. In the years since her death, Mr. Wilson has often reflected on his days of service. ``I'd do it again,'' Mr. Wilson said. ``I still have shrapnel in my leg and pain, but I will always be proud that I served my country.'' Mr. Wilson's service and sacrifices made to defend our nation will always be remembered. I am honored to call this Mississippi patriot a friend.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of James Edward ``J.E.'' Hudson, who passed away on Monday, September 7 in the comfort of his home. Born on June 21, 1919 to Milton Edgar ``Mit'' Hudson and Florence Irene Dexter Hudson, J.E. was one of eight children. From an early age, he learned to homestead his land, nearly to the point of self- sufficiency, through his gardening, hunting, and fishing capabilities. J.E.'s devotion to others began with his service in the United States Army during World War II and after as a beloved community member. He was an avid fan of Blue Grass Music and was known to travel far and wide attending Blue Grass festivals. J.E. translated his musical passion into his community, where he would become widely known at his home church, Campground United Methodist, for his stellar songleading abilities. J.E. treasured time spent with his family, many of whom are left to cherish his memory, including his daughter, Connie Walker; three sons Barney, Jerry, and James Neil Hudson; 12 grandchildren; 19 great- grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends. James Edward ``J.E.'' Hudson's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family, community, and country. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize World War II veteran John J. ``Johnny'' Ogden, Jr. in commemoration of the 75th Independence Day since the end of World War II. Johnny grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and was drafted into the United States Army at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia on July 23, 1943. He was assigned to Company F, 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division as a Rifleman. On April 19, 1944 PFC Ogden landed in Glasgow, Scotland and remained in the United Kingdom until deploying to Normandy in support of Operation Overlord on D-Day + 7-June 13, 1944. Johnny and the 314th entered combat on June 19, 1944 with an attack on the high ground northwest of Valognes and the high ground south of Cherbourg, France. On June 25, the 314th Infantry Regiment captured Fort du Roule during fierce fighting. Corporal John D. Kelly from Company E and First Lieutenant Carlos C. Ogden from Company K were awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor as a result of their fearless fighting and leadership. For their collective actions, the 314th Infantry Regiment was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation. Following the capture of Cherbourg by Allied Forces, Johnny and the 314th Infantry Regiment fought to expand the Allied perimeter at Saint- Lo in what has subsequently become known as the Battle of the Hedgerows. It was during this series of engagements that Johnny was wounded on August 13, 1944 and evacuated to Exeter, England. Johnny recuperated for six months in England and was redeployed to France as Allied Forces continued to advance to Germany. On December 21, 1945 Johnny was discharged at Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Subsequently, he returned to Memphis, Tennessee before finally settling with his wife Jean at Moon Lake, Mississippi. It is because of members of the Greatest Generation like Johnny Ogden that America was able to restore freedom and liberty to Europe. He selflessly served this great country and his example is an inspiration for generations to come.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the United States Military service of Lloyd Young, a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal. Lloyd Young, a native of the Waterford Community, graduated from college in 1967. Prior to entering the Vietnam War, Mr. Young attended flight school where he learned to fly an Army helicopter. He later became a member of the United States Army 237th Medical Detachment DMZ DUSTOFF Unit. On Thanksgiving Day in 1968, Mr. Young and a crew chief had just picked up an Army of the Republic of Vietnam Soldier who was injured. When they attempted to take off, the helicopter came under fire. Mr. Young was struck by shrapnel in his shoulder and leg. He was able to fly the helicopter to a more secure spot to make an emergency landing. Mr. Young recovered from his injuries in hospitals located in Japan and at Fort Benning, Georgia. On July 4, 1969, Mr. Young was able to go home to Eupora and to his wife, Ann. They would raise two children, Catie and Clint. The couple have been married 52 years. When asked about his military service, Mr. Young said it was frustrating to see Vietnam Veterans mistreated when they returned to the United States. ``I was thankful for the opportunity to serve,'' Mr. Young said. ``I am glad to see that Vietnam Vets are getting a little bit of thanks now.'' Mr. Young's service and sacrifices to defend our great nation will always be remembered. He has led an exemplary life and continues to be a well-respected member of the community. It is an honor to recognize Mr. Young for his outstanding dedication to God, country, and family.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, please accept this personal explanation as I was unavoidably detained due to my presence at the White House for the historic signing of the Abraham Accords between the United States, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 185 and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 186.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Pamela Gayle Cooper Hall, who passed away on August 1 after a courageous eight-year battle with cancer. Pamela's life began on December 9, 1951; however, some may say, her cancer diagnosis was truly the start of her journey. A devoted Christian and member of Salem Baptist Church, Pam viewed her diagnosis as an invitation--an invitation to share her journey and lead by example. She spent her years in treatment, encouraging others who were in similar circumstances, making friends throughout the country in the process. Her passion and devotion to Christ made her a confidante and leader to many, as she always saw the goodness in others. Pam was also a leader in the professional world, as she had a reputation for diligence and thoroughness, earning her a business management position as well as the position of Director of Finance at JME, Inc. for 25 years. Outside of her professional life, Pam also taught children's Sunday School and treasured her women's Sunday School Class. Pam's colleagues became her family, and her diagnosis allowed her to inspire so many others. Her life was one of service, grace, and love for her family and community, and she will be greatly missed by all whom she encountered. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Larry Murrah Hall; daughter, Amy Hall Jones; son, Justin Lee Hall; her grandchildren, as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Deputy Dylan Pickle, who passed away on Sunday, July 26, while conducting a safety checkpoint. Dylan was born on July 2, 1996, in Amory, Mississippi. At four years old, Dylan knew he wanted to wear a badge. After graduating from Amory High School, Dylan began to make that badge a reality. He pursued a degree in Criminal Justice at Itawamba Community College and joined the Army at only 17. Joining the Army was only the beginning for Dylan. He earned a medal at Quantico and would later receive three more for his heroism in Syria, where he served as a Specialist, becoming known for his leadership and his care for others. In 2016, Dylan brought his passion for serving home and began working with the Monroe County Sheriff's Department as a patrol deputy. Outside of his patrol duties, Dylan was a member of the First United Methodist Church. A momma's boy, Dylan always made time for his family, especially his niece and nephews, whom he adored and spoiled whenever he could. Although serving his country was his passion, he also enjoyed going to the shooting range, collecting guns, listening to country music, and of course, socializing with his friends. Deputy Dylan Pickle's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered. Left to cherish his memory is mother, Debi Pearson; sister, Kristin Vuncannon; brother, Drew Pickle; step-sister, Kayla Pearson; as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of James Charles Evers, who passed away on Wednesday, July 22, in Brandon, Mississippi, at age 97. Charles Evers was born in Decatur, Mississippi, on September 11, 1922. He served in the Army in World War II and later Korea, however, his biggest fight was the fight against racism. Following in his brother's footsteps, civil rights activist Medgar Evers, Charles was a leader in the civil rights movement. His early exposure to racial violence fueled his passion for driving out racism in a Jim Crow Mississippi. He wrote an autobiography, ran a hotel, restaurant, cab stand, and funeral parlor, and would also become one of the first black radio disc jockeys of the state. In the 1960s, Charles became the mayor of a mixed-raced town for 16 years, and he played a crucial role in black voter registration in Mississippi as well as the desegregation of a hospital. His accomplishments and dedication to the black community would make Charles an inspiration to other aspiring black political leaders. When Charles decided to run for mayor in Fayette, more than 175 black men ran for office across the state. Charles's determination and refusal to quit would not go unnoticed, as he continued to fight for positions in higher offices and continued to inspire everyone he encountered. Charles' legacy was and always will be an inspiration to all of us. He was the epitome of a leader, and his impact on the civil rights movement made history. His life demonstrated one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. Left to cherish his memory are his ten children, three sisters, two brothers, as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Deputy Dylan Pickle, who passed away on Sunday, July 26, while conducting a safety checkpoint. Dylan was born on July 2, 1996, in Amory, Mississippi. At four years old, Dylan knew he wanted to wear a badge. After graduating from Amory High School, Dylan began to make that badge a reality. He pursued a degree in Criminal Justice at Itawamba Community College and joined the Army at only 17. Joining the Army was only the beginning for Dylan. He earned a medal at Quantico and would later receive three more for his heroism in Syria, where he served as a Specialist, becoming known for his leadership and his care for others. In 2016, Dylan brought his passion for serving home and began working with the Monroe County Sheriff's Department as a patrol deputy. Outside of his patrol duties, Dylan was a member of the First United Methodist Church. A momma's boy, Dylan always made time for his family, especially his niece and nephews, whom he adored and spoiled whenever he could. Although serving his country was his passion, he also enjoyed going to the shooting range, collecting guns, listening to country music, and of course, socializing with his friends. Deputy Dylan Pickle's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered. Left to cherish his memory is mother, Debi Pearson; sister, Kristin Vuncannon; brother, Drew Pickle; step-sister, Kayla Pearson; as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Deputy William Nichols, who passed away on Wednesday, July 22, after heroically rescuing his son from a rip current at Fort Walton Beach. William was born on January 15, 1987, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He was a humble and kind man who always put others before himself. His passion for search and rescue began at a young age after watching his father oversee the county's search-and-rescue unit. His love for others, coupled with his selflessness, allowed him to follow in his father's footsteps and pursue a career in search-and-rescue with DeSoto County. He began his career as a volunteer and would later serve as a senior officer and Sergeant with the sheriffs department. Like his father, he was then promoted to director of the search-and-rescue unit and would oversee the unit for the following seven years. Outside of his passion for search-and-rescue, William was a faithful member of Cornerstone Church and served as the Explorer Advisor through the Boy Scouts of America. Other than holding numerous specialized certifications in his field, William also served as a NASCAR instructor and lead evaluator and was also an NRA instructor. William died a hero, and his heroism will not be forgotten as William's last act of service was saving his son. His life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Lindsay Nichols; his daughter, Leah Langtson; and his son, William Nichols; as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, the UFR list does not add any additional spending authorizations to the NDAA. Congress has a constitutional responsibility to fund the military. These lists provide us with insight into senior leader requirements. It allows us to allow the combatant commanders, the people down there who are closest to the troops, to tell us what they need. I am surprised that she is for the current administration, and the DOD that is appointed by the current administration, to tell us how we need to spend our money in Congress. I am not for that with any President. We need to do our job as Congress, and we need to listen to the people closest to the ground, and it does not add any money to the current NDAA process.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I first want to thank Chairwoman Speier for the hard work that we did together on the Military Personnel Subcommittee, Ranking Member Thornberry, who has provided leadership my entire time, and Chairman Smith for the great job that they have done in passing a bipartisan bill out of committee. I stand before you today in proud support of the bipartisan defense bill that we unanimously voted out of committee during the extraordinary circumstances of COVID-19. This bill does more for families and servicemembers than any that come to my mind. It is a huge step forward, but there is still work to do. However, I am concerned with the many amendments that would impose across-the-board budget cuts that may affect programs that support our military families. I am also concerned with the potential size of this cut, which, by my understanding, would be about $73 billion, more than twice the impact of the fiscal year 2013 sequester. The bill that was voted out of committee continues to support and improve the lives of those who sacrifice for our country on a daily basis by authorizing a military basic pay raise of 3 percent. This bill reinforces the committee's longstanding commitment to the military family by requiring the Department of Defense to redefine military family readiness and military family resiliency, and it provides for significant reforms to the Exceptional Family Member Program. This bill addresses the COVID-19 pandemic by requiring the military to assess the diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities, personal protective equipment, and treatment capabilities of the Armed Forces. It also requires the National Security Strategy to include the drugs, vaccines, and other critical medical equipment that will ensure combat readiness and lethality by safeguarding the health of our Armed Forces. Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank Chairwoman Speier, because this bill will continue to support our servicemembers and retain their families. Mr. Speaker, this is an outstanding bipartisan bill dedicated to our servicemembers, military families, and retirees, and it gives them the care and support they need, deserve, and have earned.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, this is dangerous. This same amendment, but in a lesser form not nearly as dangerous and not nearly as restrictive, was defeated in a bipartisan manner in committee. The reason that it was is because we are having a knee-jerk reaction to what we think the President might do--not what he did, but what we think he might do. This is dangerous. I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, I come from a State where, had the Insurrection Act not been in effect when Eisenhower and Kennedy were Presidents, we would be in a different-looking Chamber today. They allowed the schools of Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama to be integrated. Those Presidents allowed, through the Insurrection Act, the Freedom Riders to go through the State of Mississippi with the National Guard. But here we are with more restrictions. Not only do we want to put troops out there when we say it is okay--and I don't know who ``we'' is, but it doesn't need to be a ``we''--but we are going to further restrict the President, and we are going to tie the hands of those servicemembers whom we send in harm's way. It is dangerous. They can't search, and they can't participate. Mr. Speaker, we need to defeat this amendment, and there needs to be a long discussion if we want to change that. But it doesn't need to be in this bill. This is a poison pill. Let's defeat this amendment.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. This amendment is a remedy that has no current or no historical problems. It is a remedy in search of a solution. We debated this in the Armed Services Committee. This goes a step further. It defines what Federal law enforcement is, in direct opposition of what is already defined by the Department of Justice. There is a place and time for this debate, but it is not today. It is not well thought out enough. It doesn't cover local and State officials under the Insurrection Act, like Mr. Mitchell's son probably, unless he is a Federal law enforcement officer. It doesn't cover Federal employees. It is just not well thought out, and right now, this is not a problem that needs to be addressed. There are more important issues that we have right now than what we think the President might do. Don't get me wrong. We had the same debate last year when there was no talk of the Insurrection Act by the President. This is just a way to shut down what our National Guard and what our Presidential authorities are because we don't like this President. Well, guess what. It applies to all Presidents, all those in the future. This is bad law, and it is a knee-jerk reaction to a problem that does not exist.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Martha Ruth Sansom White, who passed away on June 24, surrounded by her family. Born on April 18, 1940, Martha was the firstborn of three girls to the loving parents of Russell Tilden and Idelle Gray Sansom. Following in her parents' footsteps, she received her Bachelor of Education from the University of Mississippi. While at Ole Miss, she not only earned her degree but met and fell in love with Bill White. They were married on May 12, 1962, and were happily married for 58 years. Martha continued her passion for education by eaming her Masters in Education from Mississippi State University. Like her parents, she went on to teach at Itawamba Community College and would later teach the vocational program at Northeast Community College, only retiring after 37 years. Left to cherish her memory is her husband William ``Bill'' Dyke White; her daughter, Kristy Moore Gibson; her son, John Russell White; as well as many other friends and extended family members. Martha's life was one of grace and love for her family and community. She will be greatly missed by all whom she encountered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of veteran Charleigh Ford, who passed away on Monday, June 27, due to COVID-19 and dementia complications. Charleigh's life began on October 20, 1941, in Columbus, Mississippi. Charleigh was a man who loved to share stories, stories that dated back to his time as a paperboy, and riding bikes on dirt hills with the other boys in the area. He would eventually outgrow the role of paperboy and would take on the role of a team member--in football, track, and the United States Air Force. After graduating from Lee High, Charleigh stuck to his Mississippi roots and attended Mississippi State University, where he met his wife, Lillian Hixon ``Lillajo'' Ford. Little did Charleigh know that his impact on the world was just beginning after he graduated from Mississippi State University. After college, a wedding, and the birth of his first son, Charleigh was deployed to Vietnam for a year, writing letters to Lillian every day. Charleigh didn't stop pursuing his passions even after the war. He later found his place in the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development business, making his most significant impact on Lowndes County. He was incredibly instrumental in forming the ``Golden Triangle Link'' to recruit industries to Columbus and surrounding areas. Of all of Charleigh's accomplishments, his family was his pride and joy. Once he had grandchildren, his life was complete. He was such a devoted grandfather, the ladies at daycare had to tell him to stop looking through the window at his granddaughter because she would get upset every time he left. When they were old enough to spend the night, he would have all of them over so they could get McDonald's pancakes in the morning. He would always treat the kids to whatever they wanted. Charleigh's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community and will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered. Left to cherish his memory is his daughter, Michelle Turberville; his two grandsons, Josh and Drew Turberville; his brother, Jimmy Young; as well as many other friends and extended family members.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of an outstanding young man whose life was taken too soon. Eli Kent, the son of Nicky and Alisha Gray Kent, passed away at the age of 10 on June 25, 2020, at the North Mississippi Medical Center. Eli was known for his love of travel and Ole Miss sports. When he wasn't watching the excitement on Swayze field, Eli was watching his sister dance or the Wheel of Fortune. He was also a special member of Bethel Baptist Church, sharing his smile with the many people who knew and loved him. Left to cherish his memory are his parents, Nicky and Alisha Kent; his sister, Kylee Kent; his grandparents, Jeff and Lori Gray, and James Kent; as well as many friends and extended family members. Eli suffered from spinal muscular atrophy, and while we mourn his loss, we know he is pain-free and safe in the arms of our Lord.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Dr. James Henry Neely, who passed away on Tuesday, June 23, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Mississippi. Dr. Neely was born on August 8, 1932, in West Point, Mississippi. His many accomplishments began at Mary Holmes College High School. He was the editor of the school newspaper, secretary of the senior class, president of the athletic club and, member at large of the Student Council. He then took his successes to Kentucky State University, earning a degree in chemistry and a minor in math and French. His passion for chemistry and academia lead Dr. Neely to Meharry Medical College in 1960, where he received his Doctor of Medicine degree. After graduation, he took his leadership skills and medical expertise to the United States Air Force. He earned the rank of Captain and served as a Flight Surgeon stationed in El Paso, Texas, and Belleville, Illinois. Dr. Neely's achievements didn't stop there. After an honorable discharge from the military in 1964, he relocated to Tupelo, Mississippi, to set up his medical practice. He served his community in medical practice for 35 years. He was the first African American doctor to have full hospital privileges of admitting and treating patients at the North Mississippi Medical Center. This was only the beginning of his successes in the medical field. He would go on to earn the Mississippi Medical and Surgical Award as Practitioner of the Year and the Meharry Medical College Distinguished Service Award for 25 years of service. Out of all of his accomplishments, however, Dr. Neely claimed his greatest achievement was his marriage to Elaine Kilgore for 66 years. Outside of the medical profession, Dr. Neely held memberships in numerous organizations including the National Medical Association, The Black Business Association of Mississippi, the NAACP, and was a member of the West Point Trinity United Presbyterian Church. Dr. Neely was not only a prominent figure in the medical field but in his community as well. He served as a member of the Board of Directors Community Development Foundation. He was involved in Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America, Tupelo UNCF, Good Samaritan Health Services and, St. Paul Outreach Boys Home. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Elaine; his son and my friend, mentor, colleague, and Assistant District Attorney in my office Brian Neely; his daughter, acclaimed poet and Goodwill Ambassador for the state of Mississippi Patricia Neely-Dorsey; his four grandchildren, and many other friends and extended family members. Dr. Neely's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered. In today's world, we should all look towards Dr. Neely as an example of how to make desired change by way of public service.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Dr. James Henry Neely, who passed away on Monday, June 22, in Oxford, Mississippi. Dr. Neely was born August 8, 1932, in West Point, Mississippi. His many accomplishments began at Mary Holmes College High School. He was the editor of the school newspaper, secretary of the senior class, president of the athletic club, and member at large of the student council. He took his successes to Kentucky State University, earning a degree in chemistry and a minor in math and French. His passion for chemistry and academia led Dr. Neely to Meharry Medical College in 1960. After graduation, he took his leadership skills to the United States Air Force, where he served honorably until his discharge in 1964, and he relocated in Tupelo, Mississippi. He served his community as a medical practitioner for 35 years. He was the first African American doctor to have hospital privileges, admitting privileges, and could treat patients at North Mississippi Medical Center. He would go on to earn the Mississippi Medical Surgical Award, Practitioner of the Year, and Meharry Medical College Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Neely, though, will tell you his greatest accomplishment was his marriage to Elaine Kilgore for 66 years. Outside of the medical profession, Dr. Neely held many memberships, including the National Medical Association, the Black Business Association of Mississippi, the NAACP, and was a member of the West Point Trinity United Presbyterian Church. He was not only a prominent figure in the medical field, but in the community in which he served. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Elaine; his son, my friend and mentor and an assistant district attorney in my office, Brian Neely; his daughter, acclaimed poet and Goodwill Ambassador for the State of Mississippi, Patricia Neely-Dorsey; his four grandchildren, and many others. Dr. Neely led a life we should all admire. He affected change in Mississippi and this Nation by his life of public service.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Retired Captain Joe Hyde, who passed away in his home on June 10 surrounded by family. Captain Hyde, a 1965 graduate of Independence High School, served with the Southaven Police Department for 31 years. He was one of the fast investigators and first SWAT team members to serve the Department and continued to serve the Senatobia Police Department for another 10 years. Captain Hyde, also a part of the Mississippi National Guard, was one of only two officers to receive the Department's Medal of Honor, its highest commendation, for valor, combat, and life saving skills. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Barbara; his stepchildren: Kim Mitchell (Ricky), John Parker (Christy), and Christy McGregor (Kevin); as well as many friends and extended family members. I am thankful for Joe ``Captain'' Hyde's service to Mississippi. He will be greatly missed by his family, community, and all whom he encountered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Jason Terrell, who passed away on Tuesday, June 9, after a long battle with cancer. Jason was born on July 10, 1974, in Indianola, Mississippi. Shortly after graduating high school, Jason joined the United States Marine Corps and fought our nations enemies during Operation Restore Hope Somalia. He went on to obtain the rank of Corporal, and later joined the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Jason not only patrolled Mississippi highways, but also served as an expert marksman for the Mississippi Highway Patrol SWAT team. When Sargent First Class Terrell was not patrolling Mississippi highways, he was hunting, fishing, or worshipping at First Baptist Church of Vardaman. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Tara Winter Terrell; daughter, Maddie Terrell; mother, Beverly Charlotte Mitchell; step- father, Howard Mitchell; step-mother, Linda Terrell; two brothers: Brian (Lisa) Terrell and Billy (Shanin) Vowell; as well as many other friends and extended family members. Jason's life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. William Gates, a pillar of his community and a shining example of the brilliant minds that ensure the greatness of our state. A talented urologist, leader in his field, artist, and philanthropist, the people of Mississippi will certainly feel the loss of Dr. Gates. Dr. Gates knew from a young age of his ambition to become a doctor. In high school, he was mentored by a local urologist. Dr. Gates was never short of talents and interests. He played the piano, guitar, and saxophone while being an active sportsman. He was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout and continued to be engaged with the Boy Scouts of America. He attended Vanderbilt University and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. After completing his residencies, Dr. Gates served our country in the Alabama National Guard as a flight surgeon. He consistently invested in the Columbus and Starkville medical community and retired in 2005 after 36 years in private practice. He was awarded numerous titles both for his medical and civic leadership. Dr. Gates epitomizes an enduring commitment to the health and livelihood of his community. I truly admire Dr. Gates's philanthropic efforts as well as his contributions to the practice of medicine in Mississippi. He will be missed as a friend, father, and husband, but his impact on Mississippi is immeasurable.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life of Trooper Keith Cole who passed away last week after a courageous battle with cancer. Keith Cole was dedicated to his family, career, and community, and was a proud protector of the people of Lee County. I thank Mr. Cole for his commitment to the people of Mississippi, and for being a symbol of honor and integrity throughout his life. Keith Cole was an active member of the Tupelo community. Graduating from Mooreville High School before attending Itawamba Community College, Mr. Cole pursued his lifelong dream of a career in law enforcement. He graduated from the Tupelo Police Academy and served as a Mississippi Highway Patrol Officer. Mr. Cole was dedicated to serving the people of Mississippi, but he was an ever-present husband and father to his wife of 17 years, Monica Jenkins Cole and his son Michael. He leaves behind a loving family who will carry on his memory. Trooper Cole was a valiant officer of the law, a loving husband and father, and a pillar of his community. While we mourn his loss and honor his memory, we recognize that his impact on Lee County has been immeasurable. I wish my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Trooper Cole.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life and legacy of Mrs. Lenora Prather, a native of West Point, Mississippi and a pioneer in the field of law and justice in our state. Mrs. Prather dedicated her life to public service and cemented herself in our state's history, while continuing to have an impact on young minds. Lenora Prather was born and educated in West Point, Mississippi, where she graduated from the Mississippi State College for Women before continuing her education at the University of Mississippi School of Law, earning her juris doctor in 1955. She practiced law with her father and later met fellow attorney Bob Prather. The two were married and began to practice law together until her appointment as Municipal Judge in West Point. Together they had three daughters. Among her many academic contributions, she taught in the Communication Department at Mississippi State University. In 1982, Prather was appointed as Chief Justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court. She attributed her success in her career to her parent's example. She served as a source of inspiration to countless individuals, and among her friends and family. Mrs. Lenora Prather was a shining example of commitment to values, community, and justice. She had a lasting impact on this state, and her example will continue to inspire young minds. I commend her lifelong efforts in making Mississippi great.