[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 167 (Tuesday, October 9, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6730-S6731]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO ANTHONY McCLAIN

  Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, today I wish to honor my staff director on 
the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Anthony McClain.
  Tony quietly works behind the scenes, fighting for our Nation's 
veterans, Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve servicemembers.
  In recognition of his selfless service, the National Guard 
Association has awarded him the Patrick Henry Award for his 
``exceptionally strong support for the National Guard.''
  This award is presented to civilians who have distinguished 
themselves by superior service over an extended period of time in 
support of the Armed Forces.
  I cannot think of a more deserving individual.
  Since Tony began working in the Senate in 2004, he has worked hard to 
improve the lives of National guardsmen and their families. He cut his 
teeth as legislative assistant to Senator Blanche Lincoln, then I was 
lucky enough to personally hire him in 2010.
  In my office, he wrote landmark legislation to expand guardsmen's 
access to a quality education, and he went to the mat for the Montana 
National Guard time and again.

[[Page S6731]]

  Tony helped improve mental health services for guardsmen by writing 
legislation that strengthens access to counseling at VA facilities.
  He has written several bills that break down barriers for guardsmen 
to utilize G.I. Bill education benefits.
  When the Montana National Guard needs help with keeping their 
equipment and resources in fighting shape, Tony is an ally they can 
rely on. He helped secure additional aircraft, infrastructure, and 
critical upgrades such as firefighting equipment or the recently 
authorized C-130 apron expansion.
  I could go on and on, but Tony's track record is clear.
  Tony's ability to negotiate, compromise, see opportunity, and seize 
it is second to none. He manages and motivates his team to excel, and 
as a result, the lives of millions of guardsmen, Reservists, airmen, 
and veterans are better.
  As Senators, we get to stand on the Senate floor and pass 
legislation. People like Tony make it look easy, but trust me it is 
not.
  For that, Tony deserves our heartfelt gratitude. So today, on behalf 
of Montana and this Nation, I rise to honor Anthony McClain's service 
and to say, ``Job well done, my friend.''

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