[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 78 (Thursday, June 13, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1033]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  A TRIBUTE TO COL. ABRAHAM J. TURNER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 12, 2002

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I am pleased to recognize the 
outstanding service to our Nation of Col. Abraham J. Turner, who will 
be leaving his position with us as Chief of the Army House Liaison 
Division on June 13, 2002 for assignment as the Assistant Division 
Commander of the 82d Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. 
During his tenure here, Abe has distinguished himself as a friend, 
trusted resource, and an officer who epitomizes the modern American 
professional soldier.
  Abe Turner's illustrious career as an infantry officer embodies all 
of the Army's values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, 
honor, integrity, and personal courage.
  Colonel Turner has demonstrated his outstanding tactical and 
operational expertise in numerous command and staff positions overseas 
and in the continental United States. Continually serving in positions 
of ever-increasing responsibility, the highlights of his career include 
serving as a company and Battalion Commander with the 82d Airborne 
Division, regimental tactical officer at West Point, commander of the 
Infantry Training Brigade, and special assistant to the Chairman of the 
Joint Chiefs of Staff.
  Indicative of the quality of Colonel Turner's leadership, management, 
and interpersonal skills, was the fact that he was specially selected 
to serve as the Chief of the Army's Congressional Liaison Office in the 
U.S. House of Representatives. As such, he has been responsible for 
maintaining liaison with 435 Members of Congress, their personal 
staffs, and 20 permanent or select legislative committees. Over the 
past year, Abe devoted himself to getting to know over 180 members 
personally. His dedication, candor and professionalism while serving in 
this capacity has earned him the reputation of being the best source on 
Capitol Hill to resolve issues pertaining to the Army.
  Upon leaving us, Colonel Turner, already selected and confirmed for 
promotion to Brigadier General, will return home to the 82d Airborne 
Division, where he will continue to serve our nation as Assistant 
Division Commander. That great All-American Division could not hope for 
the stewardship of a better leader than Abe Turner.
  Accordingly, I invite my colleagues to join in offering our heartfelt 
thanks to Col. Abraham J. Turner for his selfless service. He 
represents the very best that our great Nation has to offer. We wish 
Abe and his wife, Linda, continued success and happiness in all of 
their future endeavors.

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