Ike Skelton

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Emanuel).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Guam (Mr. Bordallo).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell).

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, that is quite all right. We do yield such minute.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a lifelong resident of Lexington, MO, will be celebrating 25 years of service to the Lafayette County Health Department on March 12, 2003. Mrs. Jill Thompson has demonstrated a strong commitment to the area and has helped to ensure a brighter future for the community. Mrs. Thompson graduated from Lexington High School and attended Research School of Nursing in Kansas City receiving her diploma in 1971. Jill began her 25 year journey with the Lafayette County Health Department in March of 1978 as a Registered Nurse working part-time. Her dedication and hard work earned her the position of Administrator of the Lafayette County Health Department in 1988. She has been the Administrator ever since and has helped expand the department and its services. Mrs. Thompson's devotion to the Lafayette County community does not stop at the Health Department. She is a member of many organizations such as Cancer Assistance Relief, Treasurer; Sounds of the Heart, Treasurer; Charles Lyons Memorial Foundation; MoAlpha, Chair of the Rural Public Health Committee; West Central Missouri AHEC; Lexington R- V School District Health Advisory Committee; County Health Improvement Project; Lafayette County lnterAgency; Lafayette Emergency Preparedness Committee; Mohakca; and P.E.O. Chapter HX. Mrs. Jill Thompson has distinguished herself as a community leader in Lexington and Lafayette County, Missouri. She has and continues to make her friends and family proud. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing Jill Thompson, her husband, Larry, and their three children Craig, Chad and Kristin all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, World War II Navy Veteran, Harry Dunford, of my hometown of Lexington, MO, wrote an excellent article, entitled ``The Lone Sailor,'' which appeared in the Lexington News on February 5, 2003. This article is a fitting tribute to the American sailor. I wish to share Mr. Dunford's writing with the rest of the chamber. The Lone Sailor Those who have served in the U.S. Navy will immediately recognize the figure of the statue of ``The Lone Sailor.'' There he stands, waiting on a dock for a boat to take him to his ship, waiting for a bus to take him to a train going home on leave. Or, possibly, waiting for a ride to a new duty station. Who knows? He stands there in his blues. It is obviously cold as he has his peacoat on, the collar turned up against the wind and his hands thrust into his peacoat pockets. His seabag rests beside him and his white cap is set on his head in just such a manner so as to say, ``Here is a salt, a 4.0 sailor who has been around awhile.'' He is gazing outward, perhaps to sea, perhaps for a last glimpse at the ship on which he has served until now. Who knows? We do know that such a scene has been played out many times by many sailors over the years. The Lone Sailor represents all people who ever served, are serving now or who are yet to serve in the Navy. He is a composite of the U.S. Navy bluejacket, past, present and future. The U.S. Navy Memorial was opened Oct. 13, 1987, in Washington, D.C. The memorial has been greatly expanded since that time and includes a broad granite plaza which forms the amphitheater. The statue of the Lone Sailor is the centerpiece of the plaza. The Memorial includes many other features, not the least of which is the Navy Log, where sailors past and present can provide information on their service and have it remain online and available for posterity. Since its inception in 1987, the Lone Sailor statue has been replicated at several places in the U.S. The most recent was dedicated at Vista Point, overlooking the historic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco in April 2002. An editorial writer noted that ``the statue seems right at home here, where many a sailor paused amid damp fog to sense the last tug of land on his way to the sea.'' Additional replicas of the statue are located, appropriately, at Norfolk, Va.; San Diego, Calif.; West Haven, Conn.; Kirkland, Wash. near Seattle; and Great Lakes, Ill. Those of us who have ever been stationed at Great Lakes NTS should readily be able to visualize the Lone Sailor waiting for a train to Chicago or Milwaukee just outside the Main Gate with the wind blowing up a cold gale in the wintertime. Stanley Bleifeld, sculptor of the Lone Sailor, also sculpted another statue entitled ``Homecoming.'' This statue depicts a sailor and his wife and child in a joyous reunion, and has been placed at many of the locations previously mentioned. Wouldn't it be great if a replica of the Lone Sailor stood in front of the Union Station in Kansas City, where during World War II and Korea thousands of bluejackets passed on their way to or from their destiny?

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to recognize Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO, on 137 years of service to the State of Missouri. On January 30, the annual Founders' Day Celebration was held at Richardson Auditorium at the university. Lincoln University was founded on January 14, 1866, by soldiers and officers of the 62nd and the 65th Missouri Colored Infantry units. They gave a combined $6,400 to establish the educational institution they named Lincoln Institute. The institute was founded with three stipulations: The institution shall be designed for the special benefit of the freed African Americans; it shall be located in the State of Missouri; and its fundamental idea shall be to combine study and labor. In 1921, the Missouri Legislature passed a bill introduced by Walthall M. Moore, the first Black American to serve in that body, which changed the name from Lincoln Institute to Lincoln University and created a board of curators to govern the University. Mr. Speaker, Lincoln University's annual Founders' Day Celebration is not only a celebration of another passing year's educational service but a chance once a year to remember the history of this great university. I applaud Lincoln University for its willingness to not forget the past and make sure its students know exactly how their university came to be. I know the Members of the House will join me in congratulating Lincoln University on 137 years of education excellence.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a long and exceptionally distinguished career has come to an end. Mrs. Loveedah Nadler, of Lexington, Missouri, has retired from her position as Lafayette County Collector. Mrs. Nadler, a graduate of Wellington High School, Wellington, MO, joined the County Collector's office on February 2, 1972, working for then-Lafayette County Collector George B. Gordon. However, Mr. Gordon passed away in June, 1974, leaving Mrs. Nadler to train his wife to fill the position until an upcoming election in November of that year. In that election, Warner Bounds was elected to the position and Mrs. Nadler stepped in once again and trained the newly elected official. During Mr. Bounds' third term in 1982, he was struck with health problems leaving, Mrs. Nadler to assume many of the collector's responsibilities. Mrs. Nadler ran for the office of Lafayette County Collector in 1986 and was elected in November of that year. She ran unopposed for reelection in 1990, 1994, and 1998. In her tenure working in the Office of County Collector, Mrs. Nadler blessed the office with her friendliness, ability, and willingness to work with people. Though her term officially ends on February 28, 2003, her dedication to the Lafayette County Collector's Office will be evident for years to come. Mr. Speaker, Loveedah Nadler has dedicated 31 years of service to Lafayette County, serving with dedication. As Mrs. Nadler prepares to spend more time with her husband Kenny, her granddaughter, and the rest of her family, I know the Members of the House will join me in wishing her all the best in the days ahead.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to pay tribute to General James L. Jones who recently became the first Marine to assume command of the United States European Command, EUCOM. General Jones assumed command of EUCOM in Stuttgart, Germany, on January 16, 2003. Also, in a change of command ceremony held on January 17, 2003, in Mons, Belgium, General Jones became NATO's Supreme Allied Commander, Europe. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to share with the Members of the House the speech General Jones presented as he stepped into the command at EUC0M. EUCOM COC Remarks Ambassador Coats, Members of Congress, Secretary Wolfowitz, General and Mrs. Myers, General and Mrs. Ralston, General and Mrs. Wald, State Secretary Bohmler, Lord Mayor Doctor Schuster, Professor Doctor Rommel, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Men and Women in Uniform, and Friends and Families: It is truly wonderful to be in Stuttgart again! Having been raised in Europe, and having served in this command from 1992-94, I have grown to appreciate the privilege and warmth of German hospitality--thank you one and all for welcoming us back and for making this a truly special occasion for Diane and me. Men and women in uniform have the honor of serving our respective nations . . . and for Americans here present, it is a special responsibility to be able to serve our country overseas. America is fortunate to be a Nation of influence . . . the record of history will reveal it to be an influence for the greater good of freedom-loving people for stability and for the cause of peace in the world. Nonetheless, we live in dangerous times . . . there are some in this world who would threaten our common ideals and our goals. They follow an ideology of illicit trade, illegal drugs, assassination, and global terrorism. They are, today, the cause of much of the suffering in the world, and so . . . it is morally right that those who love freedom . . . and are willing to defend it . . . pursue them into every dark corner of the world from which they plot and ply their trade. We must, and will, remain vigilant and steadfast . . . victory in this global war will not come quickly . . . nor will we achieve it alone. It will take men and women of great character and courage to prevail in these demanding times-- men and women such as those assembled here today . . . the men and women of the U.S. European Command working towards our common objectives in partnership with our friends and allies. More than courage and character, qualities of principled leadership will remain vitally important. Fortunately for all of us, we have all benefited first hand from the extraordinary leadership of General and Mrs. Ralston over the past two and one-half years. Joe and Dede, thank you both for your years of service to our Nation and to freedom loving people everywhere . . . for your caring advice and warm friendship . . . for your extraordinary generosity and thoughtfulness in making this transition so effective and enjoyable . . . Diane and I wish you every happiness as you move into the next phase of your lives and as you go north to Alaska. Men and women of the U.S. European Command, I am extremely humbled and proud to serve with you. Many challenges remain. We will not lack for important things to do. Where there is great challenge, there is great opportunity for those with the will and the courage to seize the moment. Now is such a moment. The war on terrorism, changes to the unified command plan, and ongoing operations will all complete for our time and our resources . . . and we must also ensure that the quality of life provided to our families receives proper attention as well, for they play a critical role in the readiness of our force. Diane and I look forward to working with you and your families . . . to continue to improve the spirit of security and cooperation we have worked so hard to build. To our German hosts, thank you for your warm hospitality and support . . . and to all of you present here today, thank you for making this event such a memorable one for both Diane and me.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to bring the words of NASA's Administrator Sean O'Keefe to the attention of the Members of the House. Speaking at the National Cathedral in a memorial service February 6, 2003, for the crew of STS-107, Mr. O'Keefe provided us with words of comfort that should be shared with all. SEAN O'KEEFE: To be an astronaut is to accept a lofty calling. The seven daring souls who we grieve for today represented the best of the human spirit. They did their chosen calling proud and they had a special grace. Today we pay tribute to the Columbia astronauts for what they did for us in carrying on the great tradition of the select few we call astronauts. For over 40 years these remarkable men and women who we've all come to know proudly wearing their orange space suits and blue flight jackets have played one of history's most unique diplomatic roles, acting in peace for all mankind, they serve as our good will ambassadors to the universe. Every time we send humans into space, our astronauts look up to the starry firmament seeking to extend our horizons throughout the vast expanse of God's creation. Our explorers go forward into the unknown with hope and faith. As Commander Rick Husband said, ``There is no way that you can look at the stars, at the Earth, at the moon, and not come to realize there is a God out there who has a plan and who has laid out the universe.'' In this magnificent cathedral, a portion of the lunar surface brought back to Earth by moonwalkers Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin is encased in a precious stain glass window. As we worship today in celebration of seven wonderful lives, this glorious window reminds us that the exploration of space will go on propelled by the human urge to strive, to seek, to find, and not yield, and by our common faith in our Creator. Our astronauts also have another role. By pursuing research to improve people's lives and expand our understanding of the natural world, these brave individuals help pioneer the future in ways undreamed by our ancestors. This was the noble work that joyfully motivated our seven courageous Columbia crew when they ascended to the heavens three weeks ago. Now some day due to our astronauts dedicated space research, we may find better means of fighting cancer, of life-saving drugs, helping our parents and grandparents stay healthy throughout their lives. We will always thank the crew of Columbia STS-107 mission for their passionate commitment to this cause. Now, of course our astronauts count on all the talented men and women of the NASA family represented here today. To help advance these ambitious research objectives, they're amazing people. Public servants who make up the NASA family. Everyday our scientists, engineers, safety and support folks come to work at all of our centers, thankful for the opportunity to engage in such exciting meaningful work on behalf of the American people, It is through their efforts that we are making tangible progress in our quest to improve aviation safety and efficiency, promote medical discoveries, probe more deeply into the universe, explore the planets and better understand the dynamics of Earth's climate system. And while this is a difficult period for the men and women of the NASA family, we will persevere. The support we've received from the astronauts' families, from the President, from the Vice President, and from the nation has been of tremendous strength. We will not let you down. Throughout this period of mourning, the brave families of the Columbia crew have been rocks of courage and dignity, providing much comfort to the nation and it's inspiration to us all. Dave Brown's parents, Paul and Dorothy, along with their-- his brother, Dave, are here with us today leading, I'm told, a very impressive contingent of the Brown family; as are John and Ian Clark, Laurel Clark's family; and Master Sergeant Jimmy Danielle, Mike Anderson's brother-in-law. To you and to all the families of the Columbia astronauts, we thank you for your incredible fortitude. To honor the legacy of the Columbia astronauts, we have made a solid commitment to their families to find the cause of the accident, correct whatever problems we may find, and safely move forward with our work. Motivated by our mission goals of understanding and protecting the home planet, exploring the universe and searching for life, and inspiring the next generation of explorers, we will make good on this commitment. The last element of our mission, to inspire the next generation of explorers is very important to NASA. It is a passion of ours. And because of the memory of the gallant 107 crew has done so much to inspire our youth, our shining hope for the future, to carry forth a torch of exploration and discovery, we are forever grateful to the Columbia astronauts. As you might imagine, NASA has received a tremendous outpouring of condolences of the loss of the Columbia crew from people throughout the world. It struck us often of folks who pointed out the unique role that holds in many ways the astronauts have on our young and young at heart. One gracious letter came to us from Rosemary Callahan, the fifth grade teacher in Arlington, Virginia's St. Charles School. She wrote her letter after her students had thoughtfully taken time to write their own letters of condolence, and we thank them for their heartfelt gesture. In representing her students, we're honored to have Rosemary here with us today. I'd like to read to you from her letter, which was written on Monday. ``Today on the chalkboard I wrote the definition of a hero. `A person admired for bravery, great deeds or noble qualities.' In the wake of the tragedy of Columbia and its astronauts, seven people have come to light as modern-day heroes. But they were heroes, people of great character and depth, long before Saturday. When profiled in the media, they were recognized for their spirit, for intellect, with a desire to learn and give to others, well-rounded people who could function together as a team. People who grabbed at life for the great and simple things. Indeed, they were the best,'' Rosemary concluded these words by writing, ``Our children continue to need heroes. Real heroes. May your beloved astronauts continue to inspire all as you move forward. Your hearts are heavy now, but in time God grant you a light heart again.'' In this time of enormous sadness, these words from the Book of Revelation are most comforting: ``And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.'' The writer speaks of those who are at rest with God. These words also have significance for us who are still here on our earthly pilgrimage. ``God will wipe away the tears from our eyes.'' Our hope is not ultimately a hope grounded in the progress of human achievement, as remarkable as that may be, rather it is a hope grounded in the Creator who calls Rick, Willie, Michael, Kalpana, David, Laurel, Ilan and each of us by name. May he have the faith to lift our eyes towards the heavens as they did and find their God's peace. May God bless the crew of STS-107 and may he lighten the hearts of their families and all who mourn for these valiant heroes.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform the House of the death of Mr. James F. McHenry of Jefferson City, MO. Mr. McHenry was born October 26, 1930, in St. Louis, MO, and was the son of Foster and Ellen Waddill McHenry. He graduated from Jefferson City High School in 1948 and was a 1952 graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia. Mr. McHenry graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law in 1971. He also served his country in the Korean War and was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. Mr. McHenry served as the traffic manager, director, and secretary of the Capital City Telephone Company. He served as president of the St. Thomas Dial, Inc. and vice president of Midstate Telephone Company. In 1971, Mr. McHenry started his career as an attorney by going into private practice in Jefferson City, MO. He left that practice in 1972, but formed Hyder and McHenry Law Firm in 1979. He was Cole County prosecuting attorney from 1973 through 1978. In 1981, he was appointed circuit judge, 19th judicial circuit of Cole County, by then Governor Christopher Bond. Mr. McHenry was elected to this bench in 1982 and again in 1988. He then retired in 1994. Mr. McHenry was very active in his community. He was a past vice chairman, Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau; past chairman, Jefferson City Board of Adjustment, Jefferson City Industrial Commission, and Jefferson City Parking and Traffic Commission. Mr. McHenry also served as past president of Cole County Conservation Federation, Jefferson City Host Lions Club, Jefferson City Veterans Council, and Board of Trustees of Memorial Community Hospital. He was a past member of the Salvation Army Advisory Board; past director and vice president of the Industrial Committee of the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce. Mr. McHenry also served as past commander of Oliver-Buerhle Chapter Number 17, Disabled American Veterans. He was a past president of Cole County Historical Society; a past member of the board of directors, City National Saving & Loan Association and was a past member, executive board, Great River Council, Boy Scouts of America. He was also a member of a large number of other organizations. Mr. Speaker, James McHenry was a valuable leader in his community. I know the Members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to his family: his brother John and his fiance Debra Brown.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform the House of the death of Julia Abrams, widow of former Army chief of staff General Creighton W. Abrams, Jr. Mrs. Abrams was born in Drummondville, Quebec. She was married to General Abrams in the summer of 1936 after they met while she was a junior at Vassar College and he was a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Mrs. Abrams founded the Arlington Ladies in the early 1970's. This group of women attended graveside internment services at Arlington National Cemetery and they also wrote notes of condolence and offered support. She was also honorary first lady of the U.S. Armor Association, a member of the executive council of the National Girl Scouts of America and a member of the National Military Families Association. Mrs. Abrams accompanied her husband to overseas assignments and lived in Germany and Thailand. While in Thailand, she did volunteer work for Mitradab, a Thai-U.S. foundation chartered for school construction in rural Thailand. Mr. Speaker, Julia Abrams was truly a lovely lady. She was a role model for Army wives and helped them cope with day to day military life. I know the Members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to her family: her three sons, Brigadier General Creighton Williams Abrams III, USA, Retired; General John Nelson Abrams, USA, Retired; and Lieutenant Colonel Robert Bruce Abrams, USA and her three daughters, Noel Bradley, Jeanne Daley and Elizabeth Doyle.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to pay tribute to the Missouri Farm Bureau President Charlie Kruse and members of the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, which was recently recognized as one of the nation's top state Farm Bureau organizations. The Missouri Farm Bureau was awarded the American Farm Bureau's most prestigious award, the President's Award, at the American Farm Bureau Federation's 84th Annual Meeting. The American Farm Bureau's President's Award is awarded to state Farm Bureaus that excel in the organization's 12 program categories. The categories include: membership; commodity and marketing information; young farmers and ranchers program; public relations; state and local governmental affairs; leadership and organization development; public policy implementation; special programs; political education programs; policy development; agriculture in the classroom; and agriculture promotion. In each of these categories, the Missouri Farm Bureau received a gold star for excellence, which is the highest possible recognition a state Farm Bureau can receive. This is the eighth year that the Missouri Farm Bureau has been able to claim the top award. Mr. Speaker, Charlie Kruse and the members of the Missouri Farm Bureau can be proud of the accomplishments. I know the Members of the House will join me in saluting the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation for receiving this well deserved award.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I inform the House of the death of Mr. Tom Parsons of Harrisonville, MO. Mr. Parsons was born in Harrisonville, MO, on January 12, 1912, son of William Garrett and Mary (Hodger) Parsons. He attended Harrisonville High School and attended Central Missouri State Teachers College, Warrensburg, MO, for one year. He was united in marriage to Nina Rogers of Lockwood, MO, on July 7, 1934. Mr. Parsons served in the United States Army during World War II. In 1952, Mr. Parsons was elected to serve as Cass County Treasurer and ex- officio Collector. After leaving public office, he became a partner in Congor Abstract and Insurance Company, Harrisonville. He also was a farmer and stockman, real estate appriaser, car salesman for Henderson Ford, and a real estate salesman for Schumacher Realty, all of Harrisonville. Mr. Parsons also served as Harrisonville's City Marshall and served as a deputy sheriff. Mr. Parsons was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4409 and a member of the American Legion, Hurley Lee Spicer Post #42. He was also a member of Cass County Masonic Lodge #147 AF&AM and the Cass County Democratic Club. Mr. Parsons was an active member of First Baptist Church of Harrisonville, where he served as Sunday school teacher. He was a lifetime Harrisonville resident. Mr. Speaker, I know the members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to his family; his son William; his two grandchildren, Tye and Amanda; and his two great-grandchildren.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to recognize the fine accomplishments of Larry Sexton and his business, Sellers-Sexton Inc. of St. Roberts, MO. Mr. Sexton's dealership has achieved certification under ISO 14001, the international standard for managing environmental waste and pollution, and it is the first United States dealership to do so. Mr. Sexton has long been a friend to our environment. He has supported an Adopt-A-Highway initiative and a Missouri River Team, led by one of his technicians. He also has been involved in supporting a life science initiative in Missouri by working with life science organizations and the University of Missouri. Mr. Sexton has also influenced his dealership and staff to take measures to protect the environment. He and his employees have made it a policy to reduce the waste at the local landfill by initiating a responsible process for recycling discarded materials. Mr. Sexton also was involved in helping Fort Leonard Wood Army base become the site for a new technology park for environmental research. In September 2002, Mr. Sexton and his dealership were honored for the teamwork they put forward as they extended their environmentally friendly practices by achieving ISO 14001 certification. Mr. Sexton and his dealership staff worked with Ford's Environmental Quality Office to help develop a comprehensive environmental management system to eliminate waste-generating and polluting practices. This has created an environmental management team within the Sellers-Sexton dealership. Mr. Speaker, I know that the Members of the House will join me in congratulating Mr. Sexton and Sellers-Sexton Inc. on a job well done.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a remarkable public servant, the Honorable Mitch Geisler, Mayor of Marshall, MO, will not seek reelection in 2003, after 12 years of valuable service to the citizens of Marshall. After high school, Mayor Geisler served his country through his tenure with the United States Army during World War II. He returned to Marshall, MO, and attended classes at Missouri Valley College while working with the Marshall Police Department. At the age of 23, Mayor Geisler was selected to serve as the Marshall Chief of Police. He was then selected to serve Garden City, KS, in the same position. Mayor Geisler again returned to his home town of Marshall and dedicated 27 years of service to the Wood & Huston Bank of Marshall. He retired as the bank's Senior Vice President. In addition to these accomplishments, Mayor Geisler has served his state and community in many different capacities. He was elected twice to serve as the President of the Western Missouri National Academy Associates. He also was a four year chairman of the State Land Reclamation Commission. Mayor Geisler also served as the President of the Marshall Chamber of Commerce and was the President of the Missouri Chief's of Police Association. He was the District Chairman of the Santa Fe Council, Boy Scouts of America, and served on the Lake Ozark Council's Board of Directors. He also is a 50 year member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. In this capacity, he flew with the Blue Angels Navy Acrobatic and demonstration team and also had the chance to fly off the USS Theodore Roosevelt. He was also invited by J. Edgar Hoover to attend the FBI Law Enforcement Institution. In addition to this service, Mayor Geisler also made many commitments to the service of his church. He was a fifteen year member of his Church Board and also served as the first president of the Mercy Academy School Board, where he also coached football for 5 years. Mayor Geisler and his wife, Dorothy, both had the privilege of meeting the Pope twice, invited the first time to meet the Pope at the White House and then again in St. Louis, MO. Mr. Speaker, Mayor Geisler is a valuable leader of his community and a role model for young Americans. I know that the Members of the House will join me in paying tribute to Mayor Geisler for his outstanding commitment to public service.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a long and exceptionally distinguished career in public service has come to a close. The Honorable Judge Byron Kinder retired from his position as Cole County's circuit court judge on January 1, 2003. A graduate of the University of Missouri and Georgetown Law School, Judge Kinder has been a highly respected judge in Cole County for thirty years. Judge Kinder is well known for his sense of humor, his directness, and his ability to quickly get at the heart of the problem. Through his time in office, he has treated all before him with the same sense of justice and respect. In 1962, he entered private practice in Cole County and served as an assistant prosecutor. In 1965, Judge Kinder was appointed prosecutor by Governor Warren Hearnes, serving until 1972, when he was elected circuit court judge. Mr. Speaker, I wish Judge Kinder all the best as he moves on to the next step in his life. I know the members of the House will join me in wishing him well.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to introduce to my House colleagues our guest chaplain, Reverend Tracy A. Carroll, minister of the Community Christian Church in Camdenton, Missouri. Reverend Carroll was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, and still has many relatives in northern Missouri. After graduating from high school in Des Moines, Iowa, he attended Northwest Christian College in Eugene, Oregon, and later earned a Master's of Divinity from Texas Christian University. Reverend Carroll is joined today by his wife, Colleen, who is also an ordained minister, working alongside her husband as an associate minister at the Community Christian Church. They have two children, Nathaniel, who is a senior at Camdenton, High School, and Tabitha, who is in the 7th grade at Camdenton Junior High School. Reverend Carroll has devoted his life to the ministry for over 20 years and has served the Community Christian Church in Camdenton since 1992. In the time that they have lived in Camdenton, the Carrolls have become beloved members of the Lake of the Ozarks community. Both church members and members of the community at large talk about Reverend Carroll's compassion and his caring for others. Reverend Carroll has been very active in community affairs, playing a major role in the Lake Area Ministerial Alliance and with the LAMB House, which provides food and clothing to those in need. He has been on the board of the Citizens Against Domestic Violence, worked with Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, and many other community and youth organizations. I would like to thank Chaplain Coughlin for his kind invitation to Reverend Carroll to offer the opening prayer, and I would like to thank both Reverend Carrolls for traveling to our Nation's capital to be with us today.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a long and exceptionally distinguished career has come to an end. General Montgomery C. Meigs' 36 years of service to the Nation has been marked by meritorious service in increasingly demanding command and staff positions, culminating as Commanding General, United States Army Europe and Seventh Army, Germany and Commmander, Stabilization Force, Bosnia-- Herzegovina. Throughout, General Meigs demonstrated strong and inspiring leadership, unsurpassed executive ability, and an untiring dedication to the spirit and mission of the United States Army. General Meigs was commissioned from the United States Military Academy in 1967. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, holding a Masters Degree and a Ph.D. in History. He is also a graduate of the Armor Officer Basic and Advanced Courses School, the United States Army Command and General Staff College, and the National War College. General Meigs has served in command and staff positions over the last thirty-six years. He is a combat veteran of Vietnam, serving from July 1969 to June 1970 where he served as Commander, A Troop, 3d Squadron, 5th Calvary, 1st Infantry Brigade, 5th Infantry Division and Squadron Maintenance Officer, Headquarters Troop, 3d Squadron, 5th Cavalry, 1st Infantry Brigade, 5th Infantry Division. He is also a combat veteran of Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm from September 1990 to May 1991 where he served as Commander, 2d Brigade, 1st Armored Division. His service includes staff assignments as Assistant Professor, History Department, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York; Chief, Strategic Applications Branch, Office of the Director for Strategic Plans and Policy, J-5, The Joint Staff, Washington, DC; Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, United States Army Europe and Seventh Army, Germany; along with many other distinguished positions. General Meigs' awards and decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Bronze Star Medal with ``V'' device, Bronze Star Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medals, Army Commendation Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Ranger Tab, and Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge. Throughout his career, General Montgomery C. Meigs has made significant contributions at every level assigned. In his final assignment, he brought to bear the accumulated experience and dedication of a career spent serving the nation and our soldiers. He has provided continuity for the Profession of Arms--integrity, loyalty, dedication, mentorship, vision, and the willingness to take and stand behind the risks associated with implementing change in the Army. General Meigs' distinguished performance of duty will have far-reaching impacts on the future of the Army. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing General Meigs and his wife, Mary Ann, all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform the House of the death of Mr. William Edward ``Ed'' Day of Lebanon, MO. Mr. Day was born in Windyville, MO, on October 30, 1926, son of Henry G. and Gertie M. Sweaney Day. He graduated from Windyville High School in 1944 and went on to answer his call to duty. Ed served his country in World War II with the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan shortly after the end of the war. He came home and attended Draughn Business College in Springfield, MO. Not long after this, he was united in marriage to Barbara Jean McCain on May 29, 1948. They were blessed with four wonderful children, two daughters and two sons. Mr. Day began his career in the oil business with Ozark Petroleum Company, which later became Skelly Oil. Skelly Oil took he and his family to Springfield, Joplin, and Kansas City. Mr. Day and a longtime friend of his, Will Bradley, decided to quit the oil business in 1969 and start their own business. Their new business was called B & D Truck Port and Restaurant in Lebanon, MO, and had been serving customers for the last 33 years. Along with his successful business, Mr. Day was very active in his local church, First Christian Church. He served as chairman of the board, Elder Emertitus and he and his wife were members of the Pairs and Spares Sunday School Class. He was also closely involved in the Lebanon community. Ed was a Lebanon ambassador, a member of the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce, served on the board of directors of the Lebanon Country Club and the Lebanon Park Board. He was a past president and co-chairman of the Government Affairs Committee of the National Association of Truck Stop Operators in Washington, DC, with his friend Mr. Bradley, for many years. Mr. Speaker, Ed Day was a valuable leader in his church and community. He was a genuine human being who would give you the shirt off of his back. I know the Members of the House will join me in extending heartfelt condolences to his family: his wife, Barbara; his two daughters, Barbara and Mary Catherine; his two sons, Mike and Patrick; and all of his grandchildren.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that a longtime community leader in Lafayette County, MO, will be named to the Missouri State Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Springfield, MO. Mr. Gil Rector has demonstrated a strong commitment to Lexington, MO, high school sports and has helped to ensure a brighter future for the Lafayette County community. Mr. Rector started his career in 1968 when he was named the head football coach at Lexington High School. During his 31-year tenure at the high school, he guided the Lexington High School football team to 10 Missouri River Valley Conference championships, 13 district titles, and five State football championships in 1976, 1980, 1984, 1988, and 1995. As a result of his outstanding accomplishments as a Lexington Minuteman coach, Mr. Rector was inducted into the Missouri Football Coaches Hall of Fame in 1993 and was named Missouri State Football Coach of the Year in 1976, 1980, and 1984. Lexington honored him in 1997 by naming the Lexington High School football field Gil Rector Stadium. Mr. Rector remains active with Lexington High School by serving as the school's activities director. In addition to his duties at the high school, he has served on the Lafayette County Commission for the Northern District since 2000. Mr. Gil Rector has distinguished himself as a community leader and a wonderful coach. He has and continues to make his friends and family proud. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing Gil Rector all the best.

Mr. SKELTON

Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to my attention that Lexington, MO, native Pat Scott received an Adult Leadership award at the Missouri Community Betterment (MCB) Conference awards banquet September 28, 2002. Adult Leadership awards are presented to 10 outstanding leaders committed to community improvement. Since 1964, Missourians who have dedicated their lives to community improvement have received acclaim through the MCB Program. This initiative, which is meant to spur economic growth and improve quality of life, has worked to empower communities with strengths that often go unnoticed. Pat Scott, through her tireless community efforts, continues to make her friends, family and state very proud. I am certain that my colleagues will join me in wishing Pat all the best.