[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 133 (Thursday, July 29, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E843]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO NEIL ADKERSON

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                         HON. BARRY LOUDERMILK

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 29, 2021

  Mr. LOUDERMILK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man 
who exemplified the hard-working, blue collar life that is the backbone 
of our Nation. On February 23, of this year, the Lord called Neil 
Adkerson to his heavenly home at the young age of forty-six; but, in 
those forty-six years, Neil achieved the most important aspects of the 
American dream.
  Coming from a childhood where love was plentiful, but means were 
scarce, Neil understood early the values of family bonds, of a strong 
work ethic, and of self-reliance. He never sought fame, and always 
shied away from recognition. Anytime he helped a friend or neighbor, 
which was often, he always did it with a smile. Neil worked long hours 
to make a modest living, and never complained about his life. He lived 
within his means, so he could provide for his family. His focus was on 
providing a happy, loving upbringing for his three stepsons, to which 
he only ever referred to as his sons. They are, in his words, his 
greatest contribution to this world.
  Even in hard times, Neil always greeted people with a humble smile 
and a kind word. The one thing that that could raise his ire was 
someone disparaging the country that he loved dearly; and, even then, 
he would simply tell them why he believed America is the greatest 
country on earth, because it had given a poor boy from North Georgia so 
much freedom and opportunity.
  In short, Neil Adkerson was a good man who loved God, loved his 
family, and loved his country. That, Madam Speaker, is the very essence 
of what it means to be an American.

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