[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 120 (Tuesday, July 29, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1267]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING RICHARD ROOF

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ED WHITFIELD

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 29, 2014

  Mr. WHITFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Richard 
Roof for his extraordinary service to the people of Paducah, and 
Kentucky's entire First Congressional District. Mr. Roof is celebrating 
his fortieth year as manager of Barkley Regional Airport. Barkley 
Regional's existence is due in part to Paducah native Vice President 
Alben Barkley, for whom the airport is also named. The airport provides 
travel to Chicago's O'Hare, one of the best connected airports in the 
United States.
  Richard's career in the aviation industry began in 1962 when he 
passed the commercial pilot's written exam, at age 18. Throughout Mr. 
Roof's college years he would work as a pilot, carrying overnight mail 
between Lexington, Huntington and Louisville.
  Richard Roof took the job of assistant manager on July 1, 1974, and 
two months later, he took over as manager. Richard's role at the 
airport is not limited to sitting behind a desk. Richard is said to 
wear ``many hats,'' which has proven beneficial to the airport's 
operation. When not carrying out his managerial duties, you may find 
him snow plowing the airport's 80 acres of pavement.
  Throughout Richard's 40 year tenure as manager at the airport, he has 
witnessed the evolution of the airline industry. Through Richard's 
leadership, the airport has survived the changes and weathered periods 
of unfavorable economic conditions, and has emerged as a $30 million 
economic mainstay in Western Kentucky.
  Richard Roof serves as a symbol to all Americans that through hard 
work and dedication, one life can truly change the lives of hundreds. I 
would like to call to the attention of the House of Representatives, 
Richard's many years of service to the people of Kentucky and urge all 
members of Congress to join me in congratulating him on this milestone.

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