Recognizing Jerry L. Fowles' 42 Years of Service

Floor Speech

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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 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.

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