[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 38 (Wednesday, February 26, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E219]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING KERRY THOMAS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LUCY McBATH

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 26, 2020

  Mrs. McBATH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. Kerry 
Thomas, Chief of Police for the city of Chamblee. A self-described 
``forward thinker,'' Chief Thomas has served as Chief of Police now for 
a little over three months. This weekend, citizens in Chamblee will 
honor Chief Thomas for his service as the city's first African American 
police chief.
  Chief Thomas joined the Chamblee Police Department last November 
after over 30 years of service to the Savannah Police Department. 
During his career in Savannah, his work experience spanned from a 
Patrol Officer, Forensic Examiner, Captain, and Assistant Chief of 
Police. His appointment as Chief was recommended by Chamblee City 
Manager Jon Walker and confirmed by Mayor Eric Clarkson and the 
Chamblee City Council. He was selected out of an application pool of 48 
candidates from across Georgia and beyond. According to Mr. Walker, 
Chief Thomas ``expressed a great depth of knowledge and offered a 
methodical and results oriented approach to policing.''
  Prior to his service in the police force, Chief Thomas proudly served 
in the United States Army as an Armor Crewman Specialist from 1984 
until 1987. During his time in the Army, Chief Thomas deployed to 
Germany. Upon his honorable discharge, he transitioned into the Georgia 
Army National Guard, where he served another three years.
  It is my honor to recognize Chief Thomas for his service, his 
sacrifice, and his dedication to keeping the city of Chamblee safe. As 
we approach the end of Black History Month, may we be reminded of the 
enormous contributions that black men and women make to the United 
States every day. On behalf of myself, the Sixth Congressional District 
of Georgia, and the United States House of Representatives, I am proud 
to join the city of Chamblee in honoring Chief Kerry Thomas.

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