[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 130 (Tuesday, September 15, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S9368]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                          COMMENDING TOM WALSH

 Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, a great man is being honored by 
the Salvation Army in Casper, WY. Tom Walsh is a patriot, a teacher, a 
leader, and a friend. It is fitting that the Salvation Army has 
bestowed upon him this year's Others Award. It is the highest award the 
local Salvation Army unit bestows for outstanding contributions and 
impacts in the community.
  Born and raised in Thermopolis, WY, Tom attended the University of 
Wyoming and ultimately received a doctorate from the University of 
Colorado. How fortunate we are that Tom and his wife Rita chose Casper 
as the place to live, work, and raise their family.
  When one looks around the Casper community, Tom's influence is 
obvious. He served as mayor and on the Casper City Council. The Casper 
Chamber of Commerce also benefited from his guidance. Our world-famous 
drum and bugle corps, the Casper Troopers, have been the recipients of 
his time, talent, and generosity. The list goes on and on.
  Tom had a distinguished career in the Wyoming Legislature. He was 
effective in passing legislation to improve our community and our 
State, particularly in the areas of education, county libraries, tort 
reform, community colleges, and substance abuse. Some of the efforts he 
is most proud of include the Business Ready Communities Program and the 
Veterans Property Tax Exemption Program. Tom resigned his service as a 
State representative due to his battle with leukemia--a battle he is 
fighting with distinction and tenacity.
  Though Tom's great achievements are numerous, I know he is 
particularly proud of his role as an Army Reserve ambassador. In this 
position, Tom provided extraordinary support to our soldiers and their 
families while stationed on the frontlines in the global war on 
terrorism. Tom went far above the duties of an Army Reserve ambassador. 
He used his position as a State legislator to successfully sponsor a 
bill to make it easier for Wyoming families to cope while their 
breadwinner is off to war. The bill created a $5 million trust fund, 
used to help qualifying families with special financial needs. The bill 
that passed into Wyoming law during the 57th Wyoming Legislature 
demonstrates the public's concern for and commitment to our Reserve 
members and their families as they adjust to the new reality of modern 
war. For his efforts, he received the Patrick Henry Award from the 
National Guard Association.
  Mr. President, join me in sending our congratulations and thanks to 
Tom Walsh. Receiving the Others Award from the Casper Salvation Army is 
a fitting tribute to this fine American.

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