[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E336-E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 16, 2026

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
and honor Deputy Patrick Shell, a devoted public servant from 
Vicksburg, who was recently named Deputy of the Year by the Vicksburg 
Homecoming Benevolent Club. This distinguished honor reflects his 
decades of unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his 
community.
  A lifelong resident of Vicksburg, Deputy Shell began his career in 
public service in 1991 with the National Park Service, where he served 
with distinction as an interpreter specialist before rising through the 
ranks to become Chief Ranger and later District Supervisor along the 
Natchez Trace Parkway. His leadership and dedication left a lasting 
impact on both his colleagues and the countless visitors he served.
  Following his retirement from the National Park Service, Deputy Shell 
answered the call to serve once more, joining the Warren County 
Sheriff's Office. Now in his eight year with the department, he 
continues to demonstrate exemplary service as a bailiff, while also 
carrying out critical responsibilities such as delivering summonses, 
escorting inmates, and patrolling the historic Vicksburg National 
Military Park, where he resides.
  Throughout more than three decades in law enforcement and public 
safety, Deputy Shell has encountered both the profound challenges and 
meaningful rewards that define a life of service. He has provided 
comfort in moments of tragedy, including assisting a young boy in 
coping with the loss of his father, and has also been instrumental in 
life-saving efforts, such as aiding a man experiencing a heart attack--
an act that contributed to the man's survival. These experiences 
underscore his compassion, professionalism, and steadfast dedication to 
others.
  Deputy Patrick Shell's recognition as Deputy of the Year is a 
testament not only to his exceptional career, but also to the enduring 
values of integrity, selflessness, and dedication that he embodies. His 
continued service stands as an inspiration to his fellow officers and 
to all who are fortunate to call Vicksburg home.
  Deputy Shell's commitment to service is matched by his devotion to 
family. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, 
since 1981, and together they have built a life grounded in faith, 
family, and community.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Deputy 
Patrick Shell for his outstanding service and congratulating him on his 
well-deserved recognition.

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