[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 87 (Friday, June 20, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6039-S6040]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN MEMORY OF BILLY N. STEPHENS

  Mr. FORD. Mr. President, on Sunday, May 18, a soldier was laid to 
rest in a small Kentucky community along the banks of the Ohio River. 
But this wasn't to be any small affair. Billy Stephens had served his 
country and community with distinction and he would be honored for 
those contributions by a 17-man team from Ft. Knox.
  Once the rifles were fired, the bugle sounded taps, and the flag from 
the casket was presented to his widow, those present couldn't help but 
feel the enormity of his life. A son of Hawesville in Hancock County, 
if you met Billy Stephens on the street, you might not suspect him of 
greatness.
  But it is because of him and others like him, that you and I enjoy 
freedom today.
  In 1940, he joined the Army and served for the duration of the war. 
Before the war ended, he would participate in seven campaigns and earn 
seven battle stars. In addition to the EAME theater with seven Bronze 
Stars, his military decorations included the

[[Page S6040]]

American Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Ribbon.
  When he left the Army his commitment to service continued, not only 
as the Hancock County Sheriff, but also in his dedication to seeing the 
community grow, while preserving its solid rural values. It was that 
unyielding devotion that earned him the Citizen of the Year award in 
1992 by the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce.
  Perhaps his commitment to country should come as no surprise. His 
father served in the Army during World War One, and both of his 
brothers served in World War II, where one narrowly escaped death at 
Pearl Harbor. Both of his sons served in Viet Nam, as did his 
daughter's husband. His grandson continues the tradition as an Air 
Force Academy graduate.
  Mr. President, Billy Stephen's contributions will be felt for 
generations, both as soldier and community leader. He was a good 
father, husband, friend, and fighter for America, and his presence will 
be sorely missed.

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