The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“LIFE AND SERVICE OF GARY TURNER” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E559 on May 8, 2019.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
LIFE AND SERVICE OF GARY TURNER
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HON. BILLY LONG
of missouri
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, May 8, 2019
Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Mr. Gary Turner of Sarcoxie, Missouri.
Born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, Gary was in the first graduating class at Glendale High School where he excelled at both academics and sports. After high school, he attended the University of Missouri-Rolla until 1968 when he got drafted into the United States Army. During his time in the military, he served in Vietnam with the 82nd Airborne, the 1st Infantry Division and finally, with the 25th Infantry Division.
After returning home, Gary continued his service to our country by co-founding a veterans' center in Springfield focused on men and women coming back from war and providing them with the resources they need to assimilate back into society. He has always said it's not what he gets, it's what he can give back.
To add to his already long list of accomplishments serving others, in 2011, Gary took over as head of the Community Foundation in Sarcoxie, which he has led ever since. Created in collaboration with a U.S. Department of Agriculture initiative to help with job creation and economic development in rural areas, the foundation is a way for residents to give to their community and see the fruits of their labor in real time, as the benefits all go directly into the community. Gary says that the foundation is a way for everyone to get involved in the community, and he hopes that the foundation will last forever. He has also been involved with Sarcoxie Board of Education and City Council and is chairman of the Harry S. Truman Coordinating Council, providing grant assistance to four area counties.
Madam Speaker, as a Member of Congress it is my great pleasure to stand and recognize the lifetime of service that Gary Turner has given to his country and local communities. He has truly earned this great honor, and I ask all Americans to join me in thanking him.
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