[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 178 (Thursday, December 3, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S12319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MAJOR LAMONT ATKINS

  Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, I wish today to recognize MAJ Lamont Atkins 
of the U.S. Air Force, who has been my military legislative fellow for 
the past year.
  Lamont is a proud alumnus of the University of Alabama, where he 
earned a bachelor of science in management information systems, and an 
avid fan of Alabama's Crimson Tide football team. He also holds a 
masters of arts in computer resources and Information Management from 
Webster University. With over 11 years in the military, Major Atkins 
brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to my office. He has 
excelled in every previous assignment and has received numerous 
commendations, including several Officer of the Year awards.
  While Major Atkins' primary duty was to assist my military 
legislative assistant on defense and veterans' issues, he also made 
significant contributions in other areas, including banking, judiciary, 
health, and education issues. Major Atkins prepared for Senate Army 
Caucus meetings, researched banking issues, and wrote memos on a 
variety of topics. Lamont performed beyond expectations. His 
flexibility and willingness to go the extra mile greatly benefited our 
office.
  During Lamont's tenure, we transitioned from one military legislative 
assistant to another. Lamont's assistance was crucial to ensuring a 
smooth transition, and was key in bringing the new military legislative 
assistant up to speed on my initiatives.
  Major Atkins was stationed at Hickam Air Force Base prior to his 
assignment at the Pentagon. The opportunity of experiencing firsthand 
the unique needs of the constituents of Hawaii was instrumental to 
Lamont's success on our staff, and Lamont displayed the aloha spirit 
daily.
  I also extend my sincere aloha to Lamont's wife Karonica and their 
children, Lamont Junior and Kendall, whom my staff and I have also had 
the pleasure of getting to know during Lamont's time in my office. I 
extend my heartfelt aloha and utmost appreciation to Major Atkins for 
his service to the great State of Hawaii, to the Senate, and to our 
Nation. My staff and I will miss him dearly. I wish Lamont and his 
`ohana the very best in their future.

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