[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 9 (Thursday, February 7, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S486]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO JACK RICE

 Mr. SARBANES. Mr. President, I rise today to honor an 
outstanding public servant, John ``Jack'' Rice for his thirty-six years 
of exemplary Federal service. As a Marine Machinist General Foreman at 
the Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore, Jack consistently provided high 
quality work to the Coast Guard and deserves recognition for his 
service.
  Throughout his long career with the Federal Government, Jack Rice 
distinguished himself as a highly skilled tradesman who was committed 
to the Coast Guard and his trade. His vast knowledge and extensive 
experience as a Marine Machinist made him a valuable source of 
information for the Coast Guard Yard as it sought to achieve high 
quality production of Coast Guard ships. Among the many important 
projects that he made significant contributions to was the design, 
construction, and procurement of the Yard's 4000HP water brake, a 
computer-controlled dynamometer. His insight also proved essential to 
the architects and facility managers that built and outfitted the 
building that currently houses this equipment.
  Jack Rice's innovative approach to his position will be missed. When 
the Yard's new Machine Shop was in need of additional equipment and 
tools, Jack diligently reviewed excess equipment lists from other 
agencies. Through his efforts, the Yard was able to maintain state-of-
the-art techniques while simultaneously achieving significant savings 
for the Coast Guard and the Federal Government.
  Jack Rice also played a key role in advocating that the Coast Guard 
Yard receives the necessary resources from the Federal Government to 
accomplish its important missions. I was fortunate to have the 
opportunity to work with Jack on these efforts. The Coast Guard and our 
country owe him a debt of gratitude for helping to ensure that the 
Coast Guard is adequately prepared to defend our coastlines, 
particularly during these difficult times.
  In addition to his service to the Coast Guard, Jack has contributed 
endless hours to promoting the development of skilled tradesmen. In 
particular, as Chairman of the Baltimore City Public Schools 
Manufacturing Advisory Committee, he advised the school system about 
the latest trade technology and provided valuable suggestions to the 
Board as it developed a curriculum that would effectively prepare 
students for a career involving a trade. He also played a key role in 
the organization of the job and information fairs that have been 
extremely successful at informing students and their parents about the 
need for skilled labor and the benefits of selecting a career in the 
trades.
  For 36 years, Jack Rice exemplified the Coast Guard Yard's motto, 
``Service to the Fleet''. Without a doubt, he played a large part in 
helping the Yard earn its reputation as a top quality workforce which 
produces top quality products.
  It is my firm conviction that public service is one of the most 
honorable callings, one that demands the very best, most dedicated 
efforts of those who have the opportunity to serve their fellow 
citizens and country. Throughout his career, Jack Rice has exemplified 
a steadfast commitment to meeting this demand. I extend my personal 
congratulations and thanks for his many years of hard work and 
dedication and wish him well in the years ahead.

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