[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 35 (Wednesday, February 24, 2021)]
[House]
[Pages H594-H595]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING JACKIE SMITH'S RETIREMENT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Florida (Mr. Rutherford) for 5 minutes.

[[Page H595]]

  

  Mr. RUTHERFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an 
invaluable member of my staff on her well-deserved retirement. 
Jacquelyn Smith, ``Jackie'' to those of us who love her, retires this 
week, Mr. Speaker, after two decades of service to the Fourth 
Congressional District and more than a half century of work in 
government, education, and politics.
  Her contributions to the State of Florida and to her colleagues are 
immeasurable, and our Nation is truly better off thanks to her efforts.
  Jackie began her life of service as a teacher, moving often because 
of her husband's assignment as a United States Air Force pilot.
  She eventually found herself in politics, working on a Presidential 
campaign before eventually becoming district director to my 
predecessor, former Congressman Ander Crenshaw. When I took office in 
2017, I was fortunate that Jackie stayed on as the director of special 
operations in my Jacksonville office.
  Mr. Speaker, for over 20 years, Jackie has served northeast Florida. 
She has helped countless families with casework, served as my 
representative throughout the district, and made a significant impact 
on thousands of young people and students in our community.
  Jackie has truly helped shape the next generation of Americans, 
especially those who will be going into military leadership. Each year, 
Jackie runs the military academy nomination program. She works 
tirelessly with students who apply, coaching them through the process 
and vouching for their selection.
  Mr. Speaker, I can tell you no one knows nor works that system harder 
and better than Jackie Smith. And she does it simply for the benefit of 
her students. Thanks to her efforts, District Four historically has one 
of the highest selection rates in the country.
  Jackie also runs our congressional arts program and the congressional 
medal program, both recognizing the many talented students in our 
community of northeast Florida.
  Jackie often serves as my liaison to community groups, many of which 
she is already a part of, including the Rotary Club, the USO, and the 
local Chamber of Commerce. It often seems she knows everyone in 
northeast Florida, and unsurprisingly, they all consider her a friend. 
She loves them, and they love her.
  Every day, Jackie comes to work with a servant's heart, a sharp wit, 
and a contagious optimistic attitude. No job is too big; no job is too 
small. Most importantly, she embodies the virtues of integrity, hard 
work, and selflessness that Americans expect from their government.
  Jackie leaves big shoes to fill in my office. However, as she is 
known to do, she leaves it better than when she found it.
  On behalf of the Fourth Congressional District of Florida, 
congratulations, Jackie. May your retirement be filled with warm, sandy 
beaches and continued memories with your husband, David, and your many 
friends and loved ones. We are so proud of your many achievements, and 
we thank you, Jackie, for your service to this Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, I want to tell you, I look forward to hearing all about 
her next career as a used shoe salesman for Ocean Sole Africa, as they 
improve the lives of citizens of Kenya and boost the economy here at 
home.

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