[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 14 (Tuesday, February 24, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Pages S941-S942]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO EDWARD AKER, DEVOTED PUBLIC SERVANT

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise to pay 
tribute to the life and accomplishments of Edward Aker, of Adelphi, 
Maryland, who passed away last week of brain cancer.
  Ed was an executive officer with the U.S. Agency for International 
Development (USAID) for nearly two decades. His service brought him 
posts in many countries, including Israel, Nicaragua, Guatemala, 
Pakistan, Somalia, Kenya and Tanzania. He was known by citizens 
throughout the Washington area and the world for his commitment to his 
mission, and his desire to help the underprivileged by encouraging 
economic development, humanitarian assistance and international 
cooperation.
  Ed distinguished himself with his public service. He served in the 
United States Navy during the Korean War, and worked at a number of 
government agencies including Housing and Urban Development, the State 
Department, and the General Services Administration before commencing 
his distinguished career at the United States Agency for International 
Development. He graduated from the University of Maryland, received 
masters degrees from the U.S. International University in Nairobi and 
San Diego, and received a PhD in business administration from Pacific 
Western University.
  Ed was admired by many for his patriotism, commitment to his family, 
dedication to his job, and uplifting

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spirit. He was the type of dedicated public servant that all Americans 
can admire. He was a no-nonsense executive who could be tough when the 
job had to get done; but, he combined this strong work ethic with a 
quick wit, great sense of humor and special charm. His generous smile 
will be missed by all who knew him.
  Ed Aker was buried today, Tuesday, February 24th, 1997, with military 
honors at Arlington National Cemetery. I extend my deepest sympathies 
to his wife, Lisa, his sons, Mike and Tim, his stepson, Jared, and his 
grandson, Mitchell. He leaves behind a legacy of which his family can 
be very proud.

                          ____________________