[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 128 (Thursday, September 20, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S6540]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO SAM HAMRA

 Mrs. McCASKILL. Mr. President, I rise today to honor and 
congratulate my friend, Mr. Sam Hamra.
  Born in Steele, MD, Sam received both business and law degrees from 
the University of Missouri and served as an officer in the U.S. Army 
Field Artillery and Second Armored Cavalry Regiment. He began 
practicing law in Springfield, MO, and later became the city attorney 
for Nixa and St. Robert and the governmental relations attorney for 
Branson.
  As Sam's practice became more successful, he never forgot his modest 
roots, or those less fortunate. In 1976, Sam was elected president of 
the newly formed Legal Aid Association of Green County, MO, known today 
as the Legal Services of Southern Missouri, LSSM. The Legal Aid 
Association was created to help low income citizens whose legal needs 
would otherwise be unmet. Under Sam's leadership, LSSM has helped 
thousands of Missourians in 43 counties.
  On October 11, Legal Services of Southern Missouri will dedicate 
their new building, the ``Sam F. Hamra Center for Justice.'' It is my 
hope that this building will help LSSM provide services to Missourians 
for many years to come.
  In addition to his contributions to the legal community, Sam is very 
active in many local organizations. He served on the board of the 
Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, the Springfield area Sports Hall of Fame, 
and the Springfield/Branson Transportation Study Committee. As the 
chairman of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce Building Fund, he 
raised over $300,000 for the construction of a new Chamber building.
  Sam's dedicated service is an inspiration to all Missourians. His 
achievements and commitment to helping those in need deserves the 
highest commemoration and I am proud to honor him today.
  Mr. President, I ask that the Senate join me in honoring and 
congratulating Mr. Sam Hamra.

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