[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 64 (Tuesday, April 26, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E587]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JIM BRADEN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR.

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 26, 2016

  Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I wish to honor a man whose 
service to his community and commitment to the lives of many young men 
has brought great distinction to East Tennessee and this Nation.
  Mr. Jim Braden was originally a resident of Ripley, West Virginia, 
before finding permanent roots in East Tennessee's City of Farragut 
where I am glad he stayed.
  Jim Braden has devoted fifty-two years of his incredible life to 
coaching baseball as an unpaid volunteer. His impact on the Farragut 
community can be seen through organizing and implementing the 
countywide Knox County Middle School Baseball League and raising funds 
for facilities that support Farragut baseball.
  Coach Braden worked with young men who would later go on to be team 
members of college, minor and major league teams.
  Mr. Braden has worn many hats in life on top of his baseball cap. He 
bravely served our Country during Vietnam War as a member of a United 
States Navy helicopter squadron. He is the husband of Catherine who 
contributed to the success of Knox County and Farragut athletics. He is 
the father of two Farragut High School Alumni, Mark and Laura. He is 
the legend that the Farragut High School Dugout Club will name an award 
after.
  The Farragut High School Dugout Club recognizes an outstanding player 
each season by recognizing them with a ``Mr. Baseball'' award.
  On the occasion of the name of this award being changed to the 
``Coach Jim Braden Mr. Baseball Award'' I call to the attention of my 
colleagues and other readers to celebrate his contribution to countless 
lives on and off the baseball field.
  Coach Braden looks forward to passing along the love of the game to 
his grandchildren while instilling the importance of community 
involvement. He is a shining example of a true Tennessee Volunteer. I 
hope you will join me in celebrating his life and legacy.

                          ____________________