[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 191 (Monday, November 1, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1169]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING SPECIALIST KEN TAYLOR, RECIPIENT OF TEXAS' THIRD 
     CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2021 CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

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                            HON. VAN TAYLOR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, November 1, 2021

  Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, it is my privilege to honor fifteen 
distinguished military veterans from Texas' Third Congressional 
District who answered the call to serve their Nation honorably, both in 
uniform and following their return to civilian life. The recipients of 
the 2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation exemplify the time-honored 
qualities of patriotism, service before self, and bold leadership. 
Following their time in service, their efforts in our community have 
earned these fine individuals recognition as the recipients of this 
prestigious commendation. Their stories of sacrifice will encourage 
future generations to pursue a life dedicated to the very values we 
cherish as Americans: faith, freedom, and democracy. One such hero is 
Specialist Ken Taylor of Plano, Texas.
  In 1968, Dallas native, Ken Taylor, began his journey of service by 
enlisting in the United States Army. Following completion of basic 
training at Fort Polk, Taylor would later be stationed at Fort Bragg 
and Fort Hood where he was attached to the 82nd Airborne Division and 
the 1st Armed Division Artillery.
  For his service, Specialist Taylor received the National Defense 
Service Medal.
  Upon returning to civilian life, Ken obtained a position as the 
sports editor for the Grand Prairie Daily News. Despite the rigors of 
his job, he would also concurrently attend Eastfield College utilizing 
GI Bill benefits to earn his Associate's degree. In 1972, Mr. Taylor 
founded the Traveling Classic Bowling Association, the world's largest 
league, in order to give bowlers the opportunity to bowl in a well-
organized traveling league with financial incentives. Ken would later 
go on to found marketing company, Outback Secrets International prior 
to his retirement.
  Today, Ken volunteers tirelessly on behalf of area veterans through 
his involvement in several organizations. Taylor assists individuals in 
navigating the complexities of applying for veterans benefits through 
his work as a service officer for American Legion Post 321. 
Additionally, he is an active member of the Collin County Veterans 
Coalition (CCVC), where he was appointed to the Legislative Committee. 
In his role with CCVC Ken has advocated for property tax relief for 
disabled veterans in the State Legislature.
  Ken and his wife, Sharon, are the proud parents of son, Kevin. 
Specialist Ken Taylor demonstrates the qualities of a patriot who has 
selflessly served our nation and continues to give back within our 
community.
  Today a grateful Nation thanks Specialist Taylor for his exceptional 
service and congratulates him on this recognition. May his steadfast 
example of leadership inspire others to live a life of service to a 
cause greater than themselves. It is my extreme honor to award him the 
2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation for the Third District of 
Texas.

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