[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 175 (Monday, December 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2470-E2471]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE MEMORY OF ASSISTANT POLICE CHIEF TOM UNDERHILL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JEB HENSARLING

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, today, Texans mourn the loss of a fine 
law enforcement officer. Just 3 weeks after being diagnosed with 
leukemia, at 43 years of age, Athens Assistant Police Chief Tom 
Underhill passed away at Baylor Hospital in Dallas from complications 
related to his disease.
  Underhill served Athens Police Department for 21 years. He started as 
a patrolman in May 1982. He was promoted to sergeant in 1987 and to 
patrol lieutenant in 1993. Tom Underhill took over the position of 
assistant chief in March. Previous to his time at Athens Police 
Department, he worked as a deputy sheriff at Gregg County and Henderson 
County. His coworkers remember him as having a quiet spirit, a strong 
sense of professionalism and a good sense of humor. He loved golf, gun 
shows and helping others.
  During his years of service, Tom Underhill was recognized numerous 
times for his achievements. He was named officer of the year several 
times and headed up the department's special response unit. He was a 
training officer, a firearms instructor and a graduate of the FBI 
National Academy. He was

[[Page E2471]]

also always willing to make speeches at schools and help at community 
events.
  Today, we honor the memory of Assistant Chief Tom Underhill who 
served his community with distinction. Our most heartfelt prayers go 
out to his family, friends and fellow police officers, especially to 
his wife, Stacey and his parents, Bill and Linda Underhill.

                          ____________________