Recognizing Thomas Gary Ward

Floor Speech

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Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, as we all know, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is not just one of our Nation's elite military institutions of higher learning, it is one of our national treasures. West Point counts many of our Nation's heroes, including generals, astronauts, and Presidents, as alumni.

Throughout my tenure in Congress, I've had the privilege to nominate many of my constituents to our Nation's military academies. Today I honor one of them, Thomas Gary Ward, for being chosen as the President of his Senior Class at West Point.

Thomas grew up in Jasper, Alabama where he graduated from Jasper High School. After first attending the University of Mississippi, Thomas decided that he wanted to attend West Point. I nominated him in 2019 and he was accepted.

During his time at West Point, Thomas has had the opportunity to pursue his passions in public policy, problem-solving, and leadership. In addition to serving as the President of the Class of 2024, he is also a leader on West Point's premier military skills team.

Thomas works with government leaders to encourage and inspire young adults to help solve community issues. He also helps lead various outreach programs that teach high school and college students about the importance of character and ethics in leadership.

Thomas is on schedule to graduate in May with a bachelor's degree in political science and then be commissioned as an Infantry Officer. His first assignment will be with the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado.

The motto of the 4th Division is ``Steadfast and Loyal''--a calling and a creed to those who serve in this division, a combat-ready expeditionary force. From what I know of Thomas, ``steadfast and loyal'' seems a fitting motto for his life as well as his Division.

Thomas is the son of Caroline Ivey and Tom Ward and grandson of Gary and Betty Ward and Elizabeth Rodgers.

I want to congratulate Thomas on his many achievements. Not only is he serving our Nation as a member of our armed forces, but he is also educating a new generation of Americans about how to be the best versions of themselves so they too can serve their communities and our Nation. We all wish Thomas the best from a grateful Nation.

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