[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 118 (Friday, July 31, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2157]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN RECOGNITION OF JIM HAMILTON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 31, 2009

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I wish to recognize Jim 
Hamilton of Columbia, South Carolina, for his 46 years of service as 
airport manager of the Columbia Owens Downtown Airport.
  Jim has been an active member of our community--participating in many 
diverse organizations and working to educate the community on aviation, 
the dangers of drug abuse, and supporting efforts to transport children 
with disabilities and those suffering from severe burns to Shrine 
hospitals throughout the country. He has even volunteered his time as 
an emergency standby pilot for flights to transport transplant 
candidates and critically ill patients.
  For 13 years, Jim has driven a bus each Wednesday morning to bring 
elderly individuals to shop for groceries and even successfully 
convinced some of his fellow citizens to contribute refreshments for 
the bus ride. On behalf of the Columbia Owens Downtown Airport, Jim has 
fought to secure funding for a reconstruction and redesign of the 
airport as well as safety upgrades.
  In recognition of his tireless service to the community, Jim has been 
honored twice with the Order of the Palmetto by two separate 
governors--the state's highest civilian honor--as well as numerous 
other honors and awards.
  I commend Jim Hamilton for his service to our community and his 
dedication to his fellow citizens.

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