[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 36 (Thursday, February 25, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF SERGEANT TOMMY W. CUDD

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                           HON. RALPH NORMAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 25, 2021

  Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of 
Sergeant Tommy W. Cudd, a faithful American hero from Union County who 
passed away on January 28, 2021.
  Born on March 10, 1960, Tommy was raised by two lovely parents, the 
late H.C. and Myrtle Smith Cudd. As a child, he assisted his family on 
their cattle farm where he learned to work with animals and bail hay. 
Tommy's natural comfort outdoors gave rise to his love for hunting, 
fishing, camping, and riding tractors. He graduated as a charter 
student from Union Academy--the very school in which he built alongside 
his father and lifelong friend, Robert Brown.
  Tommy spent 37 honorable years in law enforcement. He served as a 
Reserve Officer, Fireman, and Public Safety Officer with the City of 
Union before joining the Union County Sheriff's Office. Despite his 
lengthy and challenging battle with leukemia, Tommy persevered through 
all facets of his job and was awarded ``Officer of the Year'' on three 
separate occasions. A true veteran of his field, former colleagues 
assert that his enduring work ethic was rare to come by and will 
certainly be missed.
  Gary was happily married to Beth Cudd and had two sons, Caleb and 
Tommy. His two beautiful granddaughters, Ella and Abby, were his utmost 
pride and joy. He wanted nothing more than to make them proud. In the 
words of Sheriff Jeff Bailey, ``Tommy was a person who always put 
everyone first.'' He was a remarkable husband, father, and friend who 
chose to dedicate his life to serving a special community. There is no 
doubt in my mind that he has left an everlasting mark on Union County.

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