Recognizing Trout Unlimited Award Winner James ``Big Jim'' Hibbert

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Centre County veteran James ``Big Jim'' Hibbert, a retired Marine Corps staff sergeant.

Big Jim Hibbert honorably served in the United States Marine Corps and the Army for more than 19 years during six overseas deployments, including three combat deployments.

In 2019, during a meeting of the Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Jim met a young Army veteran in mental distress after his medications had been changed. The veteran had lost his job and was experiencing a mental health crisis.

Jim had been trained by mental health professionals in listening skills as a part of Trout Unlimited's Streamside Mentor program. He immediately took action, establishing a rapport and assisting the suicidal veteran.

Ultimately, Jim helped save his life that day. Because of this selfless act and for his commitment to his fellow veterans, Jim is being recognized by Trout Unlimited's Veteran Service Partnership program.

Big Jim Hibbert continues to serve and support his fellow veterans every day, and I thank Big Jim.

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