[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 107 (Friday, July 18, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1520]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     SALUTING CAPTAIN HUGH WHITAKER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 17, 2003

  Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to salute Captain 
Hugh Whitaker on the occasion of his retirement, a lawman who has 
dedicated more than 50 years of his life serving the people of 
Freestone County, Texas.
  A decorated Marine Corps veteran, Hugh Whitaker returned home to 
Fairfield after fighting in the Pacific during World War II.
  Starting in 1948, Hugh Whitaker was elected Constable, beginning a 
55-year-career of public service.
  Hugh became the county's Emergency Management Coordinator in 1955, a 
position he's held for the past 48 years.
  During the 1960's, Hugh organized the Freestone County Emergency 
Corps and the Freestone County Reserve Deputies. More recently, he 
served as Chief Deputy Sheriff up until his retirement last month.
  Freestone County Judge Linda Grant said, ``Captain Whitaker is a 
blessing for the people of Freestone County. He is always there to help 
in any way.''
  Mr. Speaker, today we honor Captain Whitaker for his service to his 
community in the name of public safety. In the words of his fellow 
lawman, Freestone County Sheriff Ralph Billings, ``No one can build 
boots big enough to fill those of Captain Whitaker.''

                          ____________________