[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 124 (Tuesday, July 31, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S10412]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING DR. W. RON DeHAVEN

 Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, today I would like to take a moment 
to honor Dr. W. Ron DeHaven, Administrator of the Department of 
Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, APHIS, and to 
congratulate him on his retirement from public service. Dr. DeHaven has 
served the agency for 28 years during which he has contributed greatly 
to the agency's mission of promoting and protecting U.S. agriculture.
  Dr. DeHaven began his APHIS career working in a field office for the 
veterinary services program in 1979. He later joined the agency's 
animal care program, rising to the top position in 1996. From 2001 to 
2002 he served as the APHIS acting associate administrator, and in 
2002, became head of the agency's veterinary services program.
  As the Nation's chief veterinarian, he played a leading role as the 
agency faced the first U.S. detection of bovine spongiform 
encephalopathy, BSE, in 2003. His handling of this situation--as well 
as other animal health emergencies--showcased his trademark 
straightforward leadership style and calm demeanor. These challenges 
prepared him well for the role of APHIS Administrator, which he assumed 
in 2004.
  As Administrator, he has skillfully guided his agency and 
communicated with the public, Congress, and USDA's many stakeholders. 
He worked conscientiously to position APHIS to prevent and respond to 
such threats as highly pathogenic avian influenza, exotic Newcastle 
disease, sudden oak death, Asian longhorned beetle and citrus diseases.
  Dr. DeHaven's dedication, work ethic, and personal commitment to 
excellence have served U.S. agriculture well and ensured a healthy and 
abundant food supply for U.S consumers.

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