[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 129 (Thursday, August 6, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E775]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAMUEL ``SAM'' DOUGHERTY

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. TIM WALBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, August 6, 2026

  Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Samuel ``Sam'' 
Dougherty of East Leroy as the Veteran of the Month for August and 
honor him for his service on behalf of a grateful Nation.
  Sam served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a Combat 
Engineer from 1988 to 1994. Following his service, Sam continued his 
lifelong commitment to serving others by investing his time and talents 
in his local community. He joined the Construction Laborers Local 355 
and has contributed significantly to the region through his service on 
the boards of the Leila Arboretum Society and the Kalamazoo Area Labor 
Management. His compassion extends even further through his involvement 
with CityLinC Foster Care and Adoption and the Advanced Manufacturing 
Career Consortium, demonstrating his dedication to creating 
opportunities and support systems for families and workers across 
Michigan.
  Sam also started a pre-apprenticeship program serving veterans and 
worked as the Director of Southwest Michigan Operations for the 
Michigan Workforce Development Institute, where he oversaw workforce 
programs, built strong regional partnerships, and helped job seekers, 
including veterans, find stable, meaningful employment. His reputation 
as a collaborative, strategic leader made him an invaluable asset to 
regional economic development efforts.
  Since 2024, Sam has served as the Michigan State Representative for 
Helmets to Hardhats, a national nonprofit organization that connects 
military service members, veterans, and reservists with quality careers 
in the building trades. Sam ensures that those who have served our 
country receive the opportunities, care, and support they deserve as 
they transition into civilian life. Sam also served as a volunteer for 
a freedom hunt for disabled veterans at Fort Custer for 20 years and 
currently volunteers with the Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior 
Program, offering steadfast support to those who have borne the 
heaviest burdens of war. For his volunteer work with veterans, he has 
been awarded the Marine Corps League Distinguished Citizen Award.
  Sam Dougherty's faithful service and continued commitment to both our 
Nation's armed services and Michigan's local communities should serve 
as an inspiration to us all. May others know of my high regard for Sam, 
as well as my deep gratitude for his lasting contributions to the 
country we love.

                          ____________________