[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 87 (Thursday, June 10, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1065]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF MR. LEON HINOTE

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                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 10, 2010

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart, that 
I rise to recognize the life and deeds of one of Santa Rosa County's 
most respected residents, Mr. Leon Hinote. Throughout his 89 years, Mr. 
Hinote spent his days as a true patriot and committed public servant. 
In his passing, Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor his lifetime as a 
compassionate and inspirational leader.
  Born the fourth of seven children, Mr. Hinote's strong character 
began to take root in the soils of Santa Rosa County; fully blooming 
into the virtues of patriotism, diligence, kindness and faithfulness 
which have impacted so many. To many, he was more than just a neighbor. 
He was a friend to the faint hearted, a sturdy back to the heavy 
burdened, and a kind voice to a weary companion.
  Mr. Leon Hinote is a remarkably special man that belongs to a 
remarkably special group--America's Greatest Generation. In 1942, Mr. 
Hinote enlisted into the U.S. Army. Not wanting to wade in the 
spotlight or expecting to be honored, he was always willing to put 
others before himself. It was not until recently, that Mr. Hinote was 
awarded with many of the honors he earned while bravely defending our 
great nation and her ideals.
  While his distinguished military record is more than enough to 
warrant praise and admiration, Mr. Hinote did not stop serving the 
others around him. After leaving the military, Mr. Hinote not only 
served on the Milton City Council for two terms, but he was also 
elected Santa Rosa County sheriff. Admired by many, Mr. Hinote is a 
role model for the entire community of Northwest Florida and a rare 
example of someone who truly understands what it means to lead by 
example.
  While we shall greatly miss Mr. Hinote, his legacy and his memory 
shall remain. His life that spanned eight decades will serve as a 
mirror for us all to gaze upon and find the full measure of a man. 
Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress and a grateful 
community, it is the highest privilege and with great pride that I 
honor the life of Mr. Leon Hinote. My wife Vicki and I extend our 
deepest sympathies to his loved ones and children: Clifton, Janet, and 
Theresa.

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