[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 56 (Wednesday, April 18, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S2491]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO JAMES MICHAEL KELLY

 Mr. JOHANNS. Madam President, today I pay tribute to a 
dedicated public servant and true legal professional, James Michael 
Kelly. For nearly 40 years, he has served with distinction in his many 
roles at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This spring, J. Michael 
will be retiring from USDA's Office of General Counsel. It is a 
privilege to take this opportunity to recognize his many contributions 
and thank him for his service.
  Since beginning his career at USDA in 1973, J. Michael has served as 
the department's Ethics Counselor, Acting General Counsel, Deputy 
General Counsel, and Associate General Counsel. In these roles, he has 
distinguished himself as a legal professional of the highest integrity. 
I had the honor of working closely with J. Michael during my service as 
Secretary of Agriculture. In fact, throughout his career he has worked 
with a total of 13 Secretaries of Agriculture. J. Michael has guided 
many at USDA in upholding all legal and ethical standards. His 
character, commitment, and professionalism are to be commended.
  Though J. Michael's nearly 40-year history with USDA is impressive, 
it does not reveal the full extent of his service to our country. In 
addition to his years at USDA, he served for two years in the U.S. Army 
and for six years at the U.S. Small Business Administration. I thank J. 
Michael for his combined 47 years of military and civilian service.
  I can personally speak to J. Michael's dedication to USDA, which will 
long be remembered and appreciated. I congratulate him on his 
retirement and thank him again for his service to our country. I also 
wish to express my gratitude to J. Michael's wife, Mary Jo (Josie), and 
their family for supporting his service. May God bless J. Michael and 
Josie as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

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