[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 186 (Tuesday, December 6, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2191]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING SERGEANT-AT-ARMS WILSON ``BILL'' LIVINGOOD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 6, 2011

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, next month this House will lose a dedicated 
public servant. Wilson ``Bill'' Livingood, our Sergeant at Arms, will 
retire after seventeen years keeping us safe. Since 1995, he has stood 
watch over the People's House and all of its members, staff, and 
visitors, overseeing the security of this chamber, the Capitol, and 
Congressional office buildings.
  Under Bill's leadership, the House has adapted its security measures 
to meet new challenges faced since September 11. He has been a driving 
force in enhancing screening procedures while ensuring that Americans 
can still easily visit the Capitol and meet with their representatives.
  Bill Livingood's life has been spent in service to our nation and to 
protecting the institutions of our democracy. Before his long service 
as Sergeant at Arms, Bill was an agent of the U.S. Secret Service for 
thirty-three years, placing his life on the line to protect our 
commander-in-chief.
  While I have no doubt that the strong voice with which Bill has 
welcomed U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries into the House chamber 
has become iconic, I believe he will be remembered here most for his 
warmth and kind-spirit and for his deep love of country. I have been 
fortunate to call him a friend and can attest to the attention and 
respect he commands from all who have known him. It has been a pleasure 
serving with Bill throughout his tenure, and I wish him all the best in 
his retirement.
  I join with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle in thanking 
Bill for his long career of distinguished service to the people of the 
United States and, in particular, to their House.

                          ____________________