[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 114 (Friday, July 30, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1510]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING WILSON COUNTY MAYOR ROBERT DEDMAN ON HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 30, 2010

  Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert 
Dedman, who is retiring after twelve years of service as Wilson County 
Mayor and a lifetime of public service.
  A lifelong resident of Lebanon, Tennessee, Bob served a tour of duty 
with the Army in the 1950s, followed by a time with the American 
Legion. After serving his country, he served his community as Lebanon's 
Purchasing Agent in 1972. He went on to join the Tennessee Secretary of 
State's Personal Property and Inventory Division until 1984, when he 
successfully ran for Wilson County Property Assessor. After deciding 
not to seek re-election to the office, he spent a term with the 100th 
General Assembly as Senate Sergeant-At-Arms.
  In 1998, Bob was elected Wilson County Mayor, and during his time in 
office, Wilson County has become the fastest growing county in the 
state. For twelve years, he has been a dedicated servant to the people 
of Wilson County. He has always been true to his promise to listen to 
the people he serves, accessible and welcoming to county residents.
  Recently, Progressive Farmer magazine ranked Wilson County as one of 
the top ten ``Most Livable Small Communities.'' This accolade is in 
large part due to Bob's leadership and the collective vision of the 
Wilson County Commission, over which he has presided.
  For decades, Bob has been committed to his community. He has served 
on the boards of the Four Lakes Development District, Greater Nashville 
Regional Council of Governments, University Medical Center, and the 
Regional Transportation Authority. This list of memberships is only a 
small sample of Bob's commitment to his community.
  Thank you, Bob, for a job well done. I hope you enjoy a long and 
happy retirement with your wife Lois, your children and grandchildren.

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