[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 71 (Tuesday, May 22, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S5436]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL MICHAEL W. DAVIDSON

 Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, today I rise to pay tribute to a 
great American, Major General Michael W. Davidson for his 32 years of 
meritorious service to our Nation. On June 16, 2001, Major General 
Davidson will retire from the service, and I know my colleagues join me 
in expressing our gratitude for his many contributions.
  Major General Davidson began his career as an enlisted member of the 
Army 32 years ago. Since that beginning, he served his Nation in the 
Active Duty Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard. His 
diligence and commitment to the United States Army did not go 
unnoticed, he was eventually promoted to the rank of two-star General 
Officer. In this capacity, General Davidson served a three year term as 
the first ever Assistant to the Chief Joint Chiefs of Staff for 
National Guard Matters.
  During his tenure as Assistant to the Chief Joint Chiefs of Staff for 
National Guard Matters, Major General Davidson provided considerable 
insight and made lasting contributions regarding the integration of the 
Nation's Reserve Component forces into the planning and strategies of 
the United States Armed Forces. Major General Davidson's comprehensive 
knowledge of the Reserve Component and its capabilities as well as 
insightful analysis of our national security concerns were invaluable 
assets and set the tone for this new position. I am confident that all 
who follow Major General Davidson will benefit tremendously from his 
example.
  Perhaps even more than his distinguished service, Major General 
Davidson is justifiably proud of his loving family. He and his wife Jo 
Ann have three children, twins Megan and Claire, both 22, and Brian, 
age 15. General Davidson and his family make their home in my hometown 
of Louisville, KY. Although he lives and was educated in Louisville, 
Major General Davidson's true allegiance is a few miles down the road 
in Lexington, or perhaps more specifically, Rupp Arena. Like so many 
others in the Bluegrass, The General is a huge supporter and fan of 
Kentucky Wildcat Basketball and I can hope that the next phase of his 
life will afford him many opportunities to enjoy the Wildcats in 
person.
  In addition to catching as many Big Blue games as possible, Major 
General Davidson plans to busy himself with consultation work and 
teaching at the college level. Clearly, his commitment to service will 
endure.
  Michael Davidson's time in uniform may be drawing to a close, however 
his record of dedicated service will continue for many years to come. 
On behalf of this body, I thank him for his dedication and 
contributions to this nation, and sincerely wish him and the entire 
Davidson family the very best in his retirement.

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