[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4392]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF JOHNNY GIBSON TO EXPLORING AND SHARING 
                      THE BEAUTY OF WEST TENNESSEE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN S. TANNER

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 10, 2005

  Mr. TANNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Johnny Gibson, a 
renowned wilderness guide, a cherished member of our community and my 
friend.
  Johnny began his life of service when he joined the Marines on July 
12, 1941, at the age of seventeen. He served his country in the Pacific 
for four and a half years, and after this tour of duty, he returned to 
school to earn a high school diploma and begin working for the 
Tennessee Highway Department. A lifetime hunter and fisher, Mr. Gibson 
soon realized his true passion was in the outdoors, and he followed his 
calling to become the most famous wilderness guide in our area.
  Johnny dedicated his life to introducing people to the enchanting 
wildlife and beauty of the West Tennessee countryside. Some of his 
patrons have included country music stars, such as Ricky Shelton, Hank 
Williams Jr., and Little Jimmy Dickens, and political leaders like 
Walter Mondale and Al Gore. His years as a guide behind him, he is now 
dedicated to spending time with his wife of 43 years, Jane, their five 
children and ten grandchildren.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me today in recognizing the 
exceptional service of my friend, Mr. Johnny Gibson.

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