Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary Black History honoree, Mrs. Anita Bledsoe-Covington. Raised in Grenada County, MS, Mrs. Anita Bledsoe-Covington is known within the community for her entrepreneurship and an active member of the community. Born 9th out of 11 children of the late Icy Bell and Willie Sykes, the family had made strides of their own. Her mother, Ms. Icy Bell, was the head cook of a prestigious and all white restaurant, Monte Cristo, of Grenada, MS from 1963 until the year she passed 1973. Ms. Juanita Sykes, Mrs. Bledsoe-Covington's twin sister, marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he made his way through the south in 1967. And for her courage and civil defiance, she was arrested and jailed for this act. With her three children, Mrs. Bledsoe-Covington moved to Yalobusha County in 1973. This move would be the first of many for Mrs. Anita Bledsoe-Covington. In 1978, she became the first black female delegate for the Mississippi Democratic Convention in Jackson, MS, as a representative for Yalobusha County. During 1982 Mrs. Bledsoe-Covington opened Nita's Beauty Salon making her a staple in serving her community as a business woman. The salon earned Mrs. Anita numerous accolades as a beautician and entrepreneur. By 1986, she was the first black chairman of the Title I program for the Coffeeville School District as an active parent. As the 90's rolled in, Mrs. Anita was elected the first female Trustee of Coffeeville School Board District from 1991 through 1998. She also was hired as the first black female city clerk for the town of Oakland, MS in 1991. During this time, the beginning of her career as a teacher with the Institution of Community Service head start program. Although she had already started her career as an early childhood school teacher, Mrs Bledsoe-Covington graduated from Coahoma Community College with an associate in early childhood education in 2003. By 2005, in the same field, she earned her B.S. from Mississippi Valley State University. Coming full circle, 2010, Can's Chapel CME Church honored Mrs. Bledsoe-Covington as an unsung hero for Succeeding against the Odds during their Black History program. In 2012, she has obtained the Dean and President Certificate from the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education. Now married at the age of 60 and with 10 grandchildren and 1 great- grandchild later, when asked if it was her agenda to create Black History, her response was, ``I've always accepted challenge and I guess maybe I did! I wanted to see if I could make a difference.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Anita Bledsoe-Covington for her quest in being a part of making history.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Cherri Branson on the occasion of her retirement from the United States House of Representatives, after more than twenty-four years of faithful and dedicated service. She is the kind of public servant who brings credit to this institution and the people we are honored to serve. Cherri began her long and multi-faceted career in the House in 1989 and, over two decades, has served in various policy, legal and legislative positions, including Legislative Counsel, Legislative Director, and Committee Counsel. I first became familiar with Cherri in the late 1990s, in the course of pursuing justice for African-American farmers who, for decades, had been systematically discriminated against by the Agriculture Department. That long-fought effort culminated in the enactment of statutory language that set the stage for a landmark discrimination settlement for impacted farmers (Pigford v. Glickman). It was not until 2005, when I became the Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, that Cherri began working for me. In her time on the Committee, she rose through the ranks and, at retirement, was serving as the Chief Counsel for Oversight. Among her key accomplishments on the Committee was the oversight work she led in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The investigations that she oversaw in the wake of this massive disaster shed light on waste, fraud, and unfair practices that harmed not only impacted individuals, but the American taxpayer. This oversight set the stage for meaningful reforms to help bring about a fair and equitable distribution of resources to survivors of the disaster, better processes to ensure distribution of immediate relief in a timely manner, and more opportunities for impacted local, small, minority and women-owned businesses to participate in recovery efforts. On the Committee, she has led investigations of national significance, including the investigation of the White House State Dinner Security Breach (the Salahi case) which led to tightened security procedures within the Secret Service's Presidential Protection process. Prior to joining the Committee, Cherri conducted investigations with the House of Representatives Government Reform (Oversight) Committee. The most notable outcomes of those investigations included the strengthening of protections for children involved in medical clinical trials, equitable tax treatment for Holocaust survivors, and several reviews of federal policies concerning illicit drugs. During her career in the House, Cherri has directly served on the staffs of Members of Congress from diverse geographic and demographic areas, including New York, Texas, Michigan, Illinois, Hawaii, California and Mississippi. Through her work on behalf of Committee Members, she has come to know and appreciate the concerns of Americans in nearly every corner of the country. In her work in the House, Cherri displayed that rare combination of steadfast and reliable care for ordinary Americans and a skillful ability to do battle on their behalf. Even as Cherri closes a chapter of distinction and accomplishment in the House of Representatives, she continues to dedicate her diverse talents to serving others. She, quite literally, is living the famous adage coined by former Speaker of the House, Thomas P. O'Neill Jr.-- ``all politics is local''--by taking on the responsibility of representing the residents of Maryland's Montgomery County District 5 on the County Council. On behalf of myself, the Democratic Members of the Committee on Homeland Security, and this institution, I extend my sincere appreciation to Cherri for all her great work. I also wish to acknowledge her loving family--husband Donald, and son, Avery--on their contributions. I urge Members to join me in extending our best wishes to Cherri upon her retirement and in her future endeavors.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated man, Mr. Jerry L. Smith. Mr. Jerry Smith was born in Hollandale, Mississippi on July 27, 1953 to Rev. C. B. and Hattie Smith. He was reared on a farm. He graduated from Anguilla High School in 1971 and in May 1975 from Mississippi Valley State University with a B. S. Degree in Industrial Technology. Mr. Smith was enlisted in the U. S. Air Force as a Second Lieutenant from July, 1975 to August, 1978. In 1979, he started working for Asmco as a plant manager for 10 years. He started farming around 1994 and has been farming ever since. His motto is, ``In order to make your life better you have to get up each day and strive for that''. Mr. Smith is married to Patsy Smith and to that union they have one child, Nicholas. He is an active member of St. Paul M. B. Church. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Jerry L. Smith.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, let me thank the ranking member of the committee, the gentleman from Oregon, for allowing me to speak in support of this legislation even though he has reserved time in opposition. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 3590, the Sportsmen's Heritage And Recreational Enhancement Act of 2013. Today's bill is the product of the work of members of the bipartisan Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, which I serve as cochair. The Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus is the largest caucus in Congress, boasting nearly 300 members. The caucus seeks to advance hunting, angling, shooting, and trapping legislative priorities. Today's bill is comprised of eight individual bills that seek to promote these interests. Mr. Chairman, not only is hunting and fishing a great passion for millions of individuals like myself, it is also a major contributor to the U.S. economy. Mississippi, home to some of the world's finest duck, whitetail, and sport fishing, contributed $2.2 billion to the economy in 2011 alone. My congressional district receives scores of visitors each year, including some Members of this body, who come to enjoy the vast natural resources that the Mississippi Delta has to offer. When these individuals visit Mississippi, they hire local outfitters, stay in our hotels, eat at our restaurants, pay State hunting fees, and purchase hunting gear like Primos brand hunting calls, which are produced in my district in Flora, Mississippi. In fact, it has been estimated that hunting and fishing supports 33,000 jobs in Mississippi. Mr. Chairman, the bill before us today makes improvements to a wide range of issues, including the ability to purchase duck stamps online; statutorily establish the Wildlife Hunting and Heritage Conservation Council, which was administratively formed by Secretaries Salazar and Vilsack in 2012. It also reduces a financial burden on States and local governments for target range construction and maintenance. It also excludes commercial ammo and fishing tackle from being classified as toxic substances, which the EPA has agreed. It also directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to issue a permit and assess an annual fee for commercial filming crews of five people or fewer for activities on Federal lands and waterways administered by the Secretary. It also allows law-abiding citizens to transport firearms across Army Corps of Engineers projects like the hundreds of miles of levee that I have in my district. And it also opens up more Federal land to hunting and fishing. Mr. Chairman, while this bill makes tremendous strides to meet the needs of sportsmen, there are several other provisions that were not included in this bill that we must continue to push for, including an overhaul of the Red Snapper Management in the Gulf of Mexico, the ability to convert decommissioned oil rigs to fish habitat, and the reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. I look forward to working with my colleagues to address these issues. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3590.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mr. Derrick Johnson who is State president of the Mississippi State Conference NAACP. Elected in 2004, he is the youngest State president in the country. Mr. Johnson earned his Jurist Doctorate degree from South Texas College of Law in Houston, TX and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Tougaloo College in Tougaloo, MS. After completing law school Mr. Johnson joined the staff of Southern Echo, Inc., a non-profit organization located in Jackson, Mississippi, serving as the regional organizer. He provided legal, technical, and training support for communities within 6 States across the south (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Louisiana, Arkansas, and South Carolina). Mr. Johnson has GIS (Geographic Information System) and Database Management training and has provided redistricting services to municipal and county governments across the State of Mississippi. Mr. Johnson served as a Fellow with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington, DC, while working in the office of Congressman Bennie G. Thompson and as a Fellow with the George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management Minority Fellowship Program. In response to Hurricane Katrina's devastation in Mississippi, Mr. Johnson was appointed to serve as vice-chair of the Governor's Commission for Recovery, Rebuilding and Renewal. He has become a leading voice for the equitable rebuilding for the working poor in the aftermath of the hurricane. He serves on many Boards: the Mississippi ACLU, Hope Community Credit Union, and the Advisory Council of the Mississippi Economic Policy Center. Mr. Johnson was appointed by the Chief Justice of the Mississippi Access to the Justice Commission. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Derrick Johnson for his dedication to serving others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a multi-talented young lady, Miss Gabrielle Nicole Terrett. Gabrielle Nicole Terrett is the 14-year-old daughter of Dr. Andre and Attorney Toni Terrett. She is the eldest of five and a 9th grader at Warren Central High School in Vicksburg. Gabrielle is an all around student that has excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities. She is a member of the Warren Central Big Blue Band flute section. She also plays the violin and has performed at local nursing homes over the years. Gabrielle has received several awards including placing 1st in Jewelry in the Hobbs-Freeman Art competition-2012, 2nd place in the Hobbs-Freeman Art competition-2012, 2nd place in the 2013 Blacks in Government Oratorical Contest, 3rd in the 2012 NAACP essay contest, and 2nd Runner Up in the 2013 Miss Southland Pageant. Gabrielle volunteers at the Mountain of Faith Women's Shelter Retail Store. As a volunteer she helps stock shelves, organize the store and assist customers to the store. She is very pleasant to work with and supports the Women's Shelter as often as possible. In her spare time she enjoys quiet time reading, preparing for pageants, and shopping. She is a faithful member of Pleasant Green Baptist Church in Vicksburg, MS where she is active in Sunday school. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Miss Gabrielle Nicole Terrett for her hard work, dedication and a strong desire to achieve.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Dianne J. Taylor, an employee of the Mississippi Department of Human Services for over twenty years. The opportunity to become a civil servant of any branch of the government is a great privilege to be able to serve the American people. Dianne graduated from Troy State University in 1993 with her B.S. Degree in Resource Management and shortly afterwards she began her career with the Mississippi Department of Human Services in that same year. In an effort to build upon her academic training and hands on learning within the agency, Dianne returned to school and received her MBA from Delta State University in 2004. During this entire time, she maintained her employment as a case manager in Tallahatchie County where she administers the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. This program is designed to help single parents become self-sufficient so that they can transition off of public assistance. Dianne has all intentions of retiring as a civil servant employee, realizing the opportunity given to her twenty years ago has been not only more than a privilege but rewarding by allowing her to help others in need. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Dianne J. Taylor for her longevity and dedication to helping others as an employee of the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable civil rights advocate and public servant, Mr. L.C. Leach, Sr. Throughout his remarkable life, Mr. Leach made unprecedented strides towards the ongoing battle of ensuring civil rights for African Americans in his community. Born February 7, 1927, Mr. Leach was a lifelong resident of Bolton, Mississippi. He received his formal education at Champion Hill Elementary School, Champion Hill High School, and Southern Christian Institute College. He received additional education at Jackson State University and became a prominent figure in the community through his employment at Universal Life Insurance, located in Jackson, Mississippi. As an African American male living in a small rural town of segregated Mississippi, Mr. Leach witnessed and endured many injustices towards himself and others in the community. But with the necessity of change beckoning his spirit, Mr. Leach set aside any fears or reservations he may have had to help his community rise above the systematic inequalities of segregation. Through a coordinated effort with other African American members of the community, Mr. Leach put forth his determination to integrate the white-only elementary school in Bolton, Mississippi by sending his son (along with three other African American students) to attend class there. Although many in town were uneasy with the decision to do so (both whites and blacks), the stance proceeded without incident. Using the stance on the white-only elementary school as a catalyst for advancing other significant changes in the community, Mr. Leach became an avid member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He worked extremely close with many other civil rights advocates in the state, most notably brothers Charles and Medgar Evers. Through organized boycotts orchestrated through the NAACP, Mr. Leach and others were instrumental in integrating white-only grocery stores in Jackson, Mississippi, the Jackson Zoological Park, and public restrooms and water fountains in and around the city of Jackson. At times, Mr. Leach helped local residents strategize boycott tactics under the cover of his insurance office. In addition to advocating for the dismantlement of segregation, Mr. Leach will be forever known for his courage in seeking and obtaining the elected position as first African American Alderman of Bolton, Mississippi. After serving as Alderman, he would later sit as Judge Leach of Bolton, as well as spearhead an effort with other community leaders to establish the community's first Head Start program for area preschool children to attend. Through all his community advocacy and public servitude, Mr. Leach was a wonderful husband and father. He was married to his loving wife, Earnestine Perry Leach, for 55 years at the time of his death. He has two sons (Joe and L.C., Jr.) and two daughters (Veronica and Bobbie) who also will continue to carry on the legacy of Mr. L.C. Leach, Sr. He transcended this life on earth on April 28, 2008. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. L.C. Leach, Sr. for his dedication and service as a civil rights advocate and pioneer during the civil rights movement.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Will T. Turner, Sr., who is a remarkable Civil Rights Worker, Extraordinary and public servant. Mr. Will T. Turner, Sr. was born in Jefferson County, Mississippi on February 23, 1930 to Rena and Warren Turner, Sr. At the age of 7, his mother died shortly after childbirth and his Uncle and Aunt, Howard and Mary Lou Nichols, reared him along with his siblings. Mr. Turner, Sr. attended Jefferson County Training School. Being independent and desiring a better life, at the age of 16 he began working with Sidney Brown, a white contractor. He remained in his employment for 20 years. During this period he became adept in the construction field and well known in this arena. He was approached to do private jobs, independent of Sidney Brown, which led to the beginning of Turner Construction. Well known throughout the community for his generosity and kindness, Mr. Turner, Sr. became instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement in Fayette, Mississippi. In 1963, he moved Charles Evers, brother of slain civil rights advocate Medgar Evers, to Fayette. He became instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement of Fayette, Mississippi as well as the surrounding communities. He attended weekly NAACP Mass Meetings, participated in numerous civil rights marches and was often jailed for equality and justice for all. In 1964, Mr. Turner, Sr. was elected as one of the first Black Aldermen to serve in a bi-racial town in the State of Mississippi along with four other blacks and Charles Evers as Mayor. He served three terms as an Alderman of the City of Fayette. He also served as Coroner of Jefferson County for 24 years. Mr. Turner, Sr. is married to the former Florence Clark and they are the proud parents of two sons--Will T., Jr. and Perry (deceased) and five daughters--Delories, Mary, Patricia, Tina and Janice. After working to register people to vote, after encouraging others to participate in the work of the movement in several different places, Mr. Turner participated in the slate of blacks seeking to make changes with the elected officials in the town of Fayette and they were all elected. When elected to the Board of Alderman of Fayette, he was interviewed by JET magazine and they were all published in that month's issue of Jet. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a Civil Rights Worker Extraordinaire, Mr. Will T. Turner, Sr., for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the African American community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Christian organization, The Non-Denomination House of Prayer. The Non-Denomination House of Prayer was founded in 1948 by Pastor Charity Waffer in the historical city of Mound Bayou, Mississippi. Pastor Waffer was the first female pastor in the Mississippi Delta. As a pastoral pioneer she was instrumental in opening doors for women and youths through various church auxiliaries and functions. Her leadership guided many to various freedoms and liberties. The current overseer is Dr. Earnestine Flowers which over sees other churches in Mississippi with the communities of Duncan, Batesville, Sardis, Oxford and in Chicago, Illinois. The Non-Denomination House of Prayer in the City of Mound Bayou current ministerial leaders are Pastor Willie Joe Flowers, Assistant Pastor Carl Henry, and Minister Martha Sanders. They have increased the church membership and have embarked on renovating and expanding their facilities in order to continue to be a blessing to its members, community, and surrounding communities by being able to be a place of refuge to those who are hungry physically and spiritually and by offering comprehensive programs to meet the needs of others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Non- Denomination House of Prayer for their dedication in being a corner stone in the Mound Bayou Community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a fellow Mississippian, and pay tribute to a soldier of The United States Air Force, Sgt. Marquita A. George of Sunflower County, Mississippi. Sgt. George is the only child born to Terri and the stepdaughter of a former Navy man, Mr. Eddie Bentley, Jr. She is a native of Moorhead, MS. Sgt. George received her early education from the East Sunflower Elementary School and Gentry High School in Indianola, MS. Sgt. George went on to pursue higher education at Alcorn State University and Mississippi State University, but put her pursuit on hold to answer a burning desire. She had to enlist in the military. She knew she could kill two birds with one stone. Sgt. George enlisted in The United States Air Force. August 5, 2005, Sgt. George attended Basic Military Training in San Antonio, TX. After graduating basic training, she went to Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, MS and studied at the Technical School for Information Management (TSIM) learning about computers. After graduating TSIM she was transferred to Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL. At Maxwell Air Force Base she was able to put her computer education to work by becoming scheduling technician, personnel liaison, and a computer technician for student officers from Majors to Lieutenant Colonels. While at Maxwell Air Force, Sgt. George also earned her Associate's Degree in Information Management from the Community College of the Air Force. Sgt. George has been deployed three times oversees. Her tours include Kirkuk, Iraq; Baghdad, Iraq; and Al Udeid Qatar. While on deployment in Baghdad she was decorated with the Joint Commendation Medal. This medal was for a joint special secret service mission with The United States Navy, The United States Marines, and The United States Army to locate Sadaam Hussein. Sgt. George is currently a Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of the Official Mail Center at Little Rock Air Force Base in Jacksonville, AR. On this assignment she is improving her supervision skills by supervising a great team of Airmen to operate the mail distribution center for the base; and we all know mail is highly important to soldiers many of whom are constantly deployed and mobile. The mail must follow without hiccups. She said her goal is to be the supervisor she never had to those under her authority and prepare for her next supervision assignment. Ultimately, Sgt. George has her eye sight set on becoming a Master Sergeant to obtain the duty title as a First Sergeant. I am pleased to hear from Sgt. George that her loyalty to the United States is faithful and just so much that she decided to re-enlist for another six more years, after which she will have fourteen years dedicated to serving and protecting our country. I am thankful and grateful for the service she has given us. Thank you Sgt. George. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a rising soldier of our United States Air Force, Sgt. Marquita A. George.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a Veteran, SFC E-7 Lonnie James Roberson, of the United States Army. SFC E-7 Lonnie James Roberson was born on November 13, 1951 in Simpson County Mississippi, to the parentage of Mr. Lonnie Lee and Zeffie Lee Roberson. His siblings are: Joseph Williams; Stella Young of Chicago, IL; Dorothy Milton of McGee, MS; Mary Jane; Kenny; Karen; Patricia; and Joann of Harrisville, MS; and Jimmy Dale of Mendenhall, MS. SFC E-7 Roberson attended the New Hymn School from 1st grade to 12th grade where he graduated and was elected president of his class in 1970. SFC E-7 Roberson is married to Mrs. Evelyn Robinson Roberson of Georgetown, MS. They have 2 sons: Alex Kendrick Roberson and Lonnie Dymond Roberson. After graduation SFC E-7 Roberson worked on various jobs until he was employed full time at Universal MFG in Mendenhall, MS, later known as Magnet MFG. He retired from Magnet MFG after working 27 years. SFC E-7 Roberson attends Brushy Creek Missionary Baptist Church located in Georgetown, MS where he wears many hats. He serves as: Deacon; Sunday School Teacher; President of Usher Ministry; President of Layman ministry; and Vice-President of the Friar Branch New Hope Sunday School Institute and he has received the Copiah Deacon Ministry Award. SFC E-7 Roberson is a member of Hopewell Lodge #507, Collins Consistory Lodge #190, 32nd degree located in Prentiss, MS. SFC E-7 Roberson joined the Army Reserve and his duty before he retired was Instructor at Camp Shelby, MS. He was with the 365th Supply and Battalion (WQ7HAA) in Jackson, MS. He received numerous awards: The Army Achievement Medal in June, 1986 and The Army Achievement Medal in 1989. SFC E-7 Roberson served in Desert Storm in 1991 and retired November 13, 2011 after 26 years of dedicated service. SFC E-7 Roberson is presently employed at ABB of Crystal Springs, MS, formerly known as Kulhman Electric, where his job description is Field Service Engineer Technician. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic and dedicated Veteran, SFC E-7 Lonnie James Roberson.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a fellow Mississippian, and pay tribute to a veteran of The United States Army, Mr. Walter Franklin. Sgt. Franklin is a native of Washington County, MS. He is the fifth child born to Mr. L.A. and Bessie Franklin. His education was received through Weddington Elementary School and TL Weston High School in Greenville, MS. Sgt. Franklin attended Basic Military Training at Fort Braggs, North Carolina. After basic training he was transferred to the military base in Louisiana. Sgt. Franklin was a staff sergeant in the Army and served his country for sixteen years. Throughout his military career he served his country here in America as well as oversees. In the United States he was stationed in Georgia, Seattle Washington, California, and Alabama. Overseas, he served in countries like Germany and Vietnam. Sgt. Franklin was one of two sons of L.A. and Bessie Franklin to serve in the US military. His brother, Alonzo, was a member of the United States Marines. Sgt. Franklin was unable to finish his career, which was his aim, due to an accident which severely damaged his leg. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he started his second career in security services and law enforcement. He worked for the Washington County Sheriff Department in Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a veteran, Sgt. Walter Franklin, of The United States Army.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Captain Ike Singletary II who is currently assigned as the Assistant Professor of Military Science at Jackson State University and Mississippi Valley State University. A native of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Captain Singletary entered the Army as a commissioned officer in 2006. Captain Singletary competed for and received a three-year ROTC scholarship as a freshman at Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; he would transfer to the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Pembroke, North Carolina the second semester of his freshmen year. Captain Singletary graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a focus in Management. Upon graduation, Captain Singletary commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Quartermasters Corp (USAR). His first assignment was Transportation Officer and Executive Officer for the 385th Transportation Detachment (Movement Control Team) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina from May, 2006- July, 2007. In July 2007, Captain Singletary was cross-leveled to the 221st Ordinance Company (Ammunition Modular) in Fort Wayne, Indiana and became a Platoon Leader of a Medium Lift Platoon tasked to prepare the company for the upcoming deployment to Afghanistan. While in Afghanistan from March 2008-April 2009, then Second Lieutenant Singletary was hand-selected to become the Officer-in-Charge of Bagram Airfield Ammunition Supply Point, the largest Ammunition Supply Point in Afghanistan. From April 2009-October 2012, Captain Singletary served as the Commander of 385th Transportation Detachment (Movement Control Team) in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During this time, he mobilized in support of the U.S. Homeland Defense Office Command and Control Consequence Response Element (C2CRE) from January 2012 to October 2012. From December 2012 to June 2013, Captain Singletary served as Supply Officer for the 207th Digital Liaison Team in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. In May 2013, Captain Singletary accepted an Active/Guard Reserve (AGR) tour. Captain Singletary is currently on a Military Leave of Absence from the Department of the Army Civilian Corps where he is employed as a Supply Technician at the 171st Infantry Brigade, Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Captain Singletary holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Webster University and has been awarded the Demonstrated Master Logistician Citation from SOLE--The International Society of Logistics and the Army Logistic University. Captain Singletary's military education includes: the Quartermaster Officer Basic and Advance Course; Combined Logistics Captain Career Course; Unit Mobilization Planner Course; Hazardous Materials First Responder at the Operational Level Course; Contracting Officer Representative Course; and Support Operations Course. His awards and decorations include: the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (1OLC), Army Achievement Medal (1OLC), Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M-device, NATO-ISAF Medal, and the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (1OLC). Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Captain Ike Singletary II for serving our country honorably.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sgt. E-5 Anthony Montrell Lewis, who is a remarkable soldier and public servant. Sgt. Anthony Montrell Lewis was born on November 3, 1989 in Jackson, MS to Joe Donnell & Carrie Ann Lewis. He is the youngest of their four children: Kina Lewis, Joey Lewis and Ronald Cleve. Sgt. Lewis grew up in a small community called Brushy Creek where he attended Crystal Springs High School in Crystal Springs, MS and graduated in 2009. Sgt. Lewis joined the United States Marine Corps in July 2009. His military occupation is Communications and his last duty station was 3rd Battalion 5th Marines. Sgt. Lewis is currently in temporary duty station at the MCRD Recruiting School where his graduation date will be December 19, 2013. He wants to continue to serve his country. Sgt. Lewis currently lives in Oceanside, CA and is happily married to Kennya Tisa Lewis. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dedicated soldier, Sgt. E-5 Anthony Montrell Lewis, for his dedication to serving others and our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a Veteran, Staff SGT Tommie Jackson, of the United States Army. Staff SGT Tommie Jackson was born April 3, 1942 in Copiah County to French and Bessie Jackson. He is the youngest of 12. Staff SGT Jackson is a member of Brushy Creek Missionary Church where he grew up in the small community of Brushy Creek located in Copiah County. Staff SGT Jackson married Anna R. Jackson and they have four (4) children: James, French, David and Antoinita Jackson. Staff SGT Jackson attended William Henry Holtzclaw School located in Crystal Springs, MS. He graduated and attended Utica Junior College, Hinds Community College and Military Police Academy. Staff SGT Jackson joined the United States Army in 1965, He was stationed in Colorado Springs, CO. His duties there were Special Services and Drill Sgt. Some of the Courses he took while in service are: ATP 21-114, Code of conduct, COURSE-A NON JUD Punishment, and COURSE--B Mil Just, Geneva Convention. He served in Vietnam for one year, four months and twenty seven days. Staff SGT Jackson came from Vietnam in 1968, earned the rank of SGT (P) E5 and joined the National Guard where he remained until retirement as Staff SGT making a total of over 24 years of dedicated service to his country. Some of the medals and ribbons received while serving are: Good Conduct, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic and dedicated Veteran, Staff SGT Tommie Jackson.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Mr. Sam Gleese. Mr. Gleese is a lifelong resident of Jackson, Mississippi. Mr. Gleese graduated from high school in 1966 and enrolled that fall at Jackson State College, (which is now Jackson State University) where he majored in business administration. After graduation on 1970, Mr. Gleese joined a management training program conducted by K-Mart. In January of 1985 Mr. Gleese was assigned the worst vending in the state of Mississippi. Because of his degree in business administration, his phenomenal record in personal rehabilitation, and his work history in the grocery business, officials decided that he needed no more training, but could learn the program in his own location. He spent two years in that facility, mastering the business and improving his techniques. Then during the next several years he moved to better locations. In 1992 Mr. Gleese bid on an excellent facility for his business and was denied the bid, then he appealed the decision, which eventually came down, but did not give him personal redress. The incident did correct unfair practices that had plagued many vendors in Mississippi for years. In April of 1994 Mr. Gleese, with the help of his wife, Mrs. Vanessa Gleese, became the manager of one of the largest food service operations in the state-vending program. Mr. Gleese has always been active in the Missionary Baptist Church. From 1973 to 1990 he taught the adult Sunday school class in his own church, and in 1980 he became a deacon. He was ordained to the ministry in November of 1992 and is now senior associate minister at the College Hill Baptist Church. In 1992 Mr. Gleese was first elected to the board of directors of the National Federation of the Blind, where he continues to serve with distinction. He has dedicated his life to educating the public, blind and sighted alike, about the abilities of blind people. In August of 2001 Mr. Gleese accepted a position as an Independent Living Specialist with LIFE (Living Independence for Everyone) of central Mississippi. This position provided opportunities to work with adolescents with special health care needs in Mississippi between the ages of fourteen and twenty-one. In January of 2002 Mr. Gleese became the statewide project director for the Healthy Futures grants. This position enhances Mr. Gleese's opportunity to serve all adolescents with special health care needs, including blind people. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Sam Gleese for his dedication to serving others and giving back to the community he grew up in.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated man, Rev. Dr. Victor Dixon. Rev. Dr. Victor Dixon was born in Georgetown, MS to the late Rev. E. C. Dixon and Mrs. Lena Dixon. Pastor Dixon currently resides in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. He is married to Mrs. Lavoise Singleton Dixon. They are the proud parents of two children: Kristy and Stephen; three grandchildren: Bralon, Branson and Bria; and a son-in-law, Reginald Robinson. Pastor Dixon is a very dedicated and active man. He is the Pastor of Egypt Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Crystal Springs, MS for over 19 years; He is the President of the Copiah County Ministerial Alliance; President, as well as a student, at Bethel Christian College, Hazlehurst Campus; Board Member for the General Mississippi Baptist State Convention; Executive Director of the Music Department of the General Mississippi Baptist State Convention; He has served as the Director for the Copiah County Ministerial Alliance Abstinence Only and Parental Involvement Programs from 2005 thru 2010; Executive Chairperson for the Copiah County Democratic Party; a member of the Tri County Healthy Marriage Coalition; the leader singer of the Legendary Dixon's Singers; and Past Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of Copiah County. Pastor Dixon is the Owner and Operator of Dixon's Body and Auto Sales, Inc. and very dedicated to the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic and dedicated businessman, pastor and community activist, Rev. Dr. Victor Dixon.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor SSG Monica Rena' Jones Davis, who is a remarkable Veteran and public servant. SSG Monica Rena' Jones Davis is a lifelong resident of Crystal Springs, MS in Copiah County. She was born on December 10, 1974 to Mrs. Irene Sandifer Jones. SSG Jones Davis attended Crystal Springs Elementary, Middle and High School and graduated 1993. The same year of her graduation, Monica joined the United States Army Reserves. Following that, she enrolled at Hinds Community College, graduated in 1995 and later attended Jackson State University. SSG Jones Davis was raised by her mother Irene Sandifer Jones and her grandmother Eunice Sandifer and joined Brushy Creek Missionary Baptist Church at the age of 3 years old. Some of her obligations at church are: Vice-President of Brushy Creek Sanctuary Choir; a member of Mission Ministry; Sunday School Teacher; Youth Choir Director/Advisor; and Minister of Music for the Brushy Creek/New Hope Association. SSG Jones Davis was a member of the United States Army reserve from 1993-2004 and while she was in the reserve, her duty at the 296th Transportation Unit in Brookhaven, MS was an 88MI Truck Driver and also Commander Driver. SSG Monica Rena' Jones Davis is married to Roderick Davis and they have three beautiful children: A'mya, Malik and Eunicesia. She works at Copiah County School and is a member of Heroines of Jericho Hopewell Court #118 in Georgetown, MS. SSG Monica Rena' Jones Davis's love for the youths is well known by all. She shows up every Sunday with a truck load of young boys who enjoy going to church with her. She has been Vice President for the Crystal Springs Youth Sports League for the past 5 years; also she plays a major role with the Crystal Springs Pee-Wee Basketball League. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a Veteran, SSG Monica Rena' Jones Davis, for her dedication to serving her country, community and the youth.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a Veteran, Mr. Roy Harper (1923-2011), of the United States Army. Mr. Roy Harper was born July 20, 1923 to the parentage of Vollie & Estella Hartfield Harper in Hopewell in the state of Mississippi. Mr. Harper was the 2nd child of four (4) children. His siblings are: Gussie Harper Phillips, LeAngie Harper Brown and Nathaniel Harper. Mr. Harper grew up in the Brushy Creek Community where he was a member of Brushy Creek M.B. Church. He joined at the early age of 10 years old and was baptized in the creek in back of Reno's Store. Mr. Harper served as: a trustee at Brushy Creek M.B. Church in 1963; a deacon; choir president; Cemetery section; and was a member of Brushy Creek Building fund committee. Mr. Harper was married to Beulah Haley Harper and to this union three (3) children were born: Adell Harper, now deceased; Helen Harper Mckenny; and Willie Fred Harper. Private Roy Harper was drafted in the United States Army on January, 1943 and was sent to Camp Shelby in Mississippi. He was honorably discharged from the United States Military Services in the Army Airbase in Lincoln, Nebraska on November 27, 1943. Private Harper received a Testimonial Certificate of Honest and Faithful Services to his country. Mr. Roy Harper remained a member of Brushy Creek Church and held various positions throughout the years until his demise on December 17, 2011. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic Veteran, Mr. Roy Harper.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a veteran, Mr. D.W. Johnson. D.W. has shown what can be done through tenacity, dedication, and a desire to serve others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hardworking and self motivated woman, Lt. Juanita Mitchell. Lt. Juanita Mitchell, a native of Mississippi, was born on May 30, 1972 in Lexington, Mississippi. She is the daughter of Mr. Jerry and Deloris Greer. Lt. Mitchell is married to Shannon Mitchell and they have three children: Shannon, Ayanna and Tynishiwa. She has taught her kids as well as herself to study hard, pray and to excel for positive things in life to succeed for a promising future. Lt. Mitchell received her education in the Holmes County Public School Systems, where she received her High School Diploma from Tchula Attendance Center in 1990. Lt. Mitchell began her Law enforcement Career at the Holmes Humphrey's Correctional Facility in February 2000 and was given the duties as being a Correctional Officer as well as fulfilling the duties of being the Acting Sergeant for that shift. In 2004 she became a part time 911 Dispatcher for the Holmes County Sheriff Department. Lt. Mitchell received a Promotion to become Holmes County Deputy Sheriff in April 2005. She attended the Mississippi Delta Community College Law Enforcement Training Academy in October, 2005 where she received her Law Enforcement Certification. In 2008 Lt. Mitchell became the first female Criminal Investigator and in the year 2012 she became the first female Lieutenant for that Department. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing a dynamic woman, Lt. Juanita Mitchell for her dedication to the community and the law enforcement.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkably dedicated and ambitious Army veteran, who has over 28 years of service to his country, Master Sergeant James M. Shinard, Sr. Master Sergeant Shinard was born December 24, 1963 in Bolton, MS. He began his career in the armed forces in July 1985. Advancing through a number of military schools of training, Master Sergeant Shinard quickly advanced in rank from student to Squad Leader by January 1986. While serving as Team Leader, he was a part of the 1/17 Infantry Battalion 2 ID Camp Casey in Korea. As a Squad Leader, he was a part of the 155th Infantry Brigade Mississippi during Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991 and 87th Division Camp Shelby, Mississippi as a soldier during Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2010. In addition to his active duty service with the Army, Master Sergeant Shinard performed with the Mississippi Army National Guard 155th Brigade (Mechanized) in Brookhaven, MS and with the United States Army Reserve as Observer Controller with the 3/346 Regt Battalion, 87th Division at Camp Shelby Mississippi, cumulatively from 1989 to 2003. Throughout his service, he has been promoted four times to his current rank as Master Sergeant, promoted April 15, 2009 in the Army Reserve. Throughout his 28 years of service, Master Sergeant Shinard has received numerous decorations and badges. Among those received are; the Humanitarian Service Medal, Combat Action Badge, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal (with Bronze Service Star), and Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with ``M'' Device and 20-Year Silver Hourglass). His present assignment is Mobilization/ Readiness NCO, 412 Theater Engineer Command (TPU) in Vicksburg, MS. Currently, Master Sergeant Shinard is also pursuing an educational degree at Belhaven University, which he plans to complete in June 2014. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Master Sergeant James M. Shinard, Sr. for his unwavering dedication and service as a respected veteran for his family, local community, and country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, Mrs. Sherondra McGee Bailey. Mrs. Bailey has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication and a desire to make a positive difference in serving others. Sherondra McGee Bailey is a resident of Vicksburg, Mississippi born on August 8, 1982 to Beverly Thomas and Patrick Pope in New Orleans, LA. She is the oldest of eleven children born to Beverly Thomas. She graduated from South Delta High School in 2000. After High School Sherondra attended the University of Southern Mississippi where she met and married Brandon Bailey and to that union they have one son, Brayden Bailey. Sherondra enlisted in the United States Air Force in April 2008. She graduated number two in her Meteorologist class. She was later stationed at the Barksdale Air Force Base located in Louisiana. Sherondra is a devout member of Clark Chapel United Methodist Church in Cary, MS. She enjoys time with family and friends. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Sherondra McGee Bailey for her dedication to serving our great Country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable veteran, Mr. Gregory L. Young. Mr. Young has shown what can be done through hard work, setting goals, and aiming high. Gregory L. Young was born December 20, 1963 in Yazoo City, Mississippi to Doris and Neal Young. Gregory graduated from Yazoo City High School in May of 1981. He attended University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS from August 1981 to May of 1982 when he joined the United States Navy in the spring of 1982. In August of 1982 he began his U.S. Navy career at the Navy Recruit Training Command (NRTC) in Great Lakes, Illinois. After graduating from his Navy (A) School, Gregory was assigned to the U.S.S. Estocin FFG-15 home ported at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. In October 1985 he transferred to the U.S.S. Charles F. Adams DDG-2 and served until February 1989. Later in February, 1989, Gregory transferred to Navy Recruiting District (NRD) St. Louis, MO and served as a Navy Recruiter in Columbia, Missouri until March, 1993. While on recruiting duty, he attained the rank of E-6 and ultimately served as the Recruiter in Charge of the local recruiting office. After a successful tour of recruiting duty, he transferred to the U.S.S. Wainwright CG-28 home ported out of Charleston, South Carolina. He served onboard the U.S.S. Wainwright from April, 1993 until November, 1993 as a CIC Watch Supervisor. In November, 1993 Gregory decided to leave the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged as an Operation Specialist First Class. He served his country honorably for a total of 11 years. During that time, he participated in three six month deployments, two Special Operations deployments and numerous exercises and humanitarian operations. He has also received numerous awards throughout his naval services including: Navy Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, Battle ``E'' Award (3), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3), Good Conduct Award (2), the Navy Recruiting Ribbon and Gold Wreath Award (2). After Gregory's tenure with the U.S. Navy, he was hired by the SkyTel Corp. in May of 1994 as a Customer Service Representative in Jackson, MS. While in this position he was selected along with a few other employees to conduct testing of the Skytel Two Way Paging network through the United States. He was later promoted to Network Operator in the company's Network Operation Center. Gregory enjoyed working for SkyTel and stayed with the company until it was later sold and relocated in December, 2008. After a long period of unemployment due to the economic recession, he went to work for Comcast as a Customer Account Executive in February, 2010 and remained until November, 2010. In December, 2010 Gregory accepted an offer from the Department of Homeland Security as a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) with the Transportation Security Agency (TSA). Currently, he is a dual certified TSO at the Jackson Municipal Airport. He was selected as TSO of the Quarter (April-June 2012) for the State of Mississippi. In January of 2013 he was selected as the TSO of The Year 2012 for the State of Mississippi. Gregory is a devout member of North Jackson Baptist Church in Jackson, MS where he serves as a trustee. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Gregory L. Young for his dedication to serving our great Country and his community.