[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF TOM BECKHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of 
Marion Burkett Beckham III, also known as Tom Beckham. Tom passed away 
on July 19, 2014, after a long bout with cancer.
  Tom served his country honorably during the Vietnam War with the 
United States Marine Corps from 1965 to 1969. During his service, Tom 
earned the Presidential Unit Citation, the Good Conduct Medal, the 
National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 2 stars, 
the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and the Rifle Marksman Badge.
  Tom was born in Clovis, California, on February 11, 1947. He was 
raised in the foothill area above Millerton Lake and graduated from 
Sierra High School.
  A long time musician and singer, he entertained people over a span of 
40 years. He played in bands, duos, and single engagements throughout 
the Central Valley and up and down the State of California, as well as 
Nevada, Alaska and other Western States. Tom was also well known as an 
instrument repairman for many years.
  Tom spent many years raising show quality poultry that were 
endangered species or on the Breeds Conservancies Watch List. In 
addition, he was always happy to help 4-H and FFA students with their 
poultry projects.
  Tom will be remembered for his strong determination, jovial ways, and 
a unique sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Joy; 
son, Brad Beckham; step daughter, Pamela Piek; 10 grandchildren and 
step grandchildren; and his brother, Forest Beckham.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the 
U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Tom Beckham. His 
presence will undoubtedly be missed, but the impact he made on our 
country and the community will never be forgotten.

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