[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 205 (Wednesday, December 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1220-E1221]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING JERRY L. FOWLES' 42 YEARS OF SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 13, 2023

  Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jerry 
L. Fowles as he retires after 42 years of service.
  Jerry Fowles has served the United States of America for the past 42 
years. His story began as a student at Saks High School. Upon 
graduation, he made the decision to enlist in the United States Army.
  Jerry is the youngest son born to John Fowles, Sr. and Lona Bell 
Fowles. Two days after his graduation, he boarded a bus to Texas and 
began his career as an Army soldier. After completing a four-year 
enlistment, he returned home to Anniston only to realize that his 
passion was the military, so he reenlisted. His love for the military 
encouraged him to continue re-enlisting until he had served a total of 
21 years.
  While in the military, Jerry furthered his education and attended 
City Colleges of Chicago

[[Page E1221]]

where he obtained an associate degree. After retirement, he returned to 
Anniston once again and began seeking other employment. He was employed 
at Federal Mogul Corporation in Jacksonville, Alabama, prior to 
applying for a position at General Dynamics. After working at General 
Dynamics for roughly a year, Jerry decided to apply for a position at 
the Anniston Army Depot. During his employment at the Depot, Jerry has 
worked in several different positions and after 21 years of service he 
has decided to turn in his ``I.D. Badge'' and retire. Throughout 
Jerry's career he has met many wonderful people and is thankful for the 
opportunity to be a part of the ANAD family.
  In June 2002, Jerry married Melinda Madden, a psychology major who 
works in the social service field. They have one son, Travis J. Fowles, 
and two beautiful grandchildren Gabriel (6) and Summerlyn (4) Fowles.
  Jerry and Melinda are both members of World Changers Church 
International. Jerry is also a member of a community group called 
Kingdom Men's Fellowship Ministry. This ministry consists of men from 
the community who spread the gospel of Jesus Christ while helping those 
in need. Some of Jerry's hobbies/interest are reading his Bible, 
spending time with his wife and watching Alabama Football. Roll Tide!
  The past 42 years have truly taught some valuable lifelong lessons, 
yet Jerry leaves Bynum knowing his years of government service have 
ended. Retirement will be an opportunity for him to begin a new chapter 
in his life. In the book of Philippians 1:6, one of his favorite 
scriptures, speaks to being confident in knowing, that He which hath 
begun a good work in you will perform it until the day in which Jesus 
Christ returns. Jerry has now completed his time of government service 
and now will be able to enjoy retirement.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Jerry for his service to our 
country. Wishing him the best in retirement.

                          ____________________