[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 61 (Monday, April 28, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S2421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO H. SAWIN MILLETT

  Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, on May 30, H. Sawin Millett will step 
down as commissioner of the Maine Department of Administrative and 
Financial Services, one of many positions he has held during a 
remarkable career of more than 55 years of dedicated service at all 
levels of government. I rise today to join the people of Maine in 
thanking him for his many contributions as he retires to his family, 
his farm, and his beloved hometown of Waterford, ME.
  Sawin has served five Maine Governors--Republican, Democratic, and 
Independent--and in the cabinets of four. His energy, expertise, and 
commitment to responsible and accountable government have been applied 
to such diverse areas as education, finance, and mental health 
services.
  Sawin served six terms in the Maine legislature and was lead House 
Republican on the Appropriations Committee during the last three. His 
institutional knowledge and keen understanding of the State budget 
process and fiscal operations has been invaluable to our State. 
Building on his early career as a teacher, coach, and principal, he was 
the first executive director of the Maine School Management Association 
and an assistant professor at the University of Southern Maine.
  It is fitting that Sawin's life in public service began at the local 
level, serving as selectmen in the towns of Dixmont and Waterford, and 
as a town meeting moderator.
  The appreciation of Sawin's service crosses party lines. When the 
announcement of his retirement was made, both sides of the aisle were 
united in praise for this generous mentor and effective leader who has 
always been devoted to the people of Maine.
  I have had the privilege of knowing Sawin for many years. We served 
together in the cabinet of Gov. John McKernan, and I was fortunate to 
have him on my State staff during my first term in the Senate. I also 
have had the pleasure of knowing his wonderful wife Barbara, who has 
been a strong and loving partner for more than 57 years. On behalf of 
the people of Maine, I wish them health and happiness in the years to 
come.

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