[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 101 (Friday, July 24, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H6418]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO ROBERT F. LANGFORD

  (Mr. HINOJOSA asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to stand before my 
colleagues today to pay homage to a man who has benefitted us all. Mr. 
Robert Langford, the senior vice president of production operations of 
Owens' Country Sausage has retired after 35 years of service.
  Robert, a graduate of both Texas A&M University and Southern 
Methodist University was hired by Jerry Owens in 1963. Mr. Owens 
recognized Robert's talents and quickly promoted him to manager of 
engineering. In 1972, he became the general manager and was continually 
advanced through the ranks until he reached his present position, the 
senior vice president of production operations. Due in large part to 
his work and innovations, Robert led the Owens Corporation to gain the 
number one market share position in the Southwest, which it still 
enjoys to this day.
  These accomplishments are quite impressive, yet they are only one 
aspect of Robert F. Langford's life. Robert also worked extensively 
with the Southwest Meat Association. He was the president of SMA from 
1978 to 1980 and composed its bylaws and mission statement. But Robert 
was not content to merely serve the SMA. He wanted to serve his 
community as well. To realize this goal, Robert became one of the three 
founders of the Southwest Meat Association's Education Foundation as 
well as its chairman from 1982 to 1998. The Education Foundation 
provides scholarships to deserving students who display an interest and 
aptitude for a career in the meat industry. He believes education is a 
must.
  Robert's commitment to promoting education in the community is shared 
by his wife Kathy, who dedicated 35 years of her life to teaching her 
young children. Kathy has zealously supported Robert every step of the 
way and she shares in all his numerous triumphs.
  Robert F. Langford served his country in the United States Air Force 
as a fighter pilot for five years. He has served his community as the 
Chairman of the Fellowship of Deacons for Park Cities Baptist Church, 
and he has served us all by improving our quality of life through his 
work.
  He has earned my admiration as a talented businessman and inventor. 
He has gained my respect as a dedicated family man and community 
leader. And he has won my friendship as a kindhearted and generous 
person.
  I wish for Robert, his wife Kathy, and their children and 
grandchildren, all the blessings that are mine to give. From the bottom 
of my heart.

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