[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 19, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6444-S6445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO COLONEL WILLIAM J. GRAHAM

 Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, it is with great pleasure that I 
rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding soldier who has 
dedicated his life to the service of our Nation. Colonel William J. 
Graham will take off his uniform for the last time this month as he 
retires from the U.S. Army following 21 years of active duty 
commissioned service.
  Colonel Graham began his military career with an appointment to the 
U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He completed the rigorous course 
of study at the academy and graduated with a Bachelor of Science 
degree, having focused his studies in the areas of general engineering 
and national security. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1980.
  During Colonel Graham's career as an Army aviator, he was selected to

[[Page S6445]]

command at every level from platoon through brigade. He reorganized, 
built, and fine-tuned several record-setting organizations, and enjoyed 
making things happen. His leadership, management, problem-solving and 
team-building skills have been proven during combat, peacekeeping 
operations, and peacetime, and he is a proven expert in crisis 
management, organizational planning, and training.
  Colonel Graham's aviation units were among the most frequently 
deployed to challenging international security environments. During his 
career he served in and deployed to many of the world's ``hotspots,'' 
including Korea, Germany, Bosnia, Macedonia, Hungary, Croatia, Panama, 
Honduras, and Grenada. Colonel's Graham's career culminated with duty 
as the Deputy Legislative Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs 
of Staff where he served as liaison between the Nation's most senior 
military officer and the U.S. Senate.
  Colonel Graham's retirement represents a loss to both the Joint 
Forces and the U.S. Army. Throughout a career of distinguished service, 
he has made innumerable long-term and positive contributions to both 
the military and our Nation. As Colonel Graham transitions to tackle 
new challenges in the business community, we will certainly miss him 
and wish continued success for both him and his family.

                          ____________________