Robert T. Schilling

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Tom Dufford on his recent retirement. For more than 40 years Tom has faithfully carried out the mission of the Social Security Administration, and I applaud and admire his dedication to those he serves.

From his start as an intern back in 1972 and to his rise to Operations Supervisor in 2009, Tom has been a leader with tremendous loyalty and a passion for service. Over the course of his career he has received many awards for his work at the Social Security Administration, including the 2009 Regional Commissioner's Citation for Area 2.

I join the many who have commended Tom's efforts in saying ``thank you.'' It is stories like this that make me proud to serve the 171 District and all the hard-working individuals who reside there. I am honored to have Tom as my constituent.

Mr. Speaker, on September 1 of 2012, a tragedy occurred at the Quad City Air Show when a 30-year-old L-39 fighter jet fell from the sky, claiming the life of a veteran pilot.

Glenn Smith, or ``Skids,'' as he is remembered by his fellow Hoppers of Frisco, Texas, never shied away from adventure. He lived life to the fullest as a certified scuba diver, as a licensed sailor, and as a self-proclaimed ``struggling'' golfer. Nearly three decades ago, he took one of the greatest risks and started what would eventually become a successful business. In 2006, Skids retired to pursue his true passion--flying. Restoring and flying fighter jets wasn't just a hobby to him; it was a way to share a piece of our Nation's history with people across the country.

Skids will always be remembered by those he motivated through his mission to educate the general public and to inspire kids to work hard in school, aim high in life, and have fun. Skids' enthusiasm for life will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends and teammates he leaves behind.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jerry Costello, who will be retiring at the end of the 112th Congress. We need more Members of Congress like Jerry--Representatives who are willing to reach across the aisle and work to get the job done regardless of party.

There is no limit to what you can accomplish when you don't care who gets the credit. Jerry is one of those guys, and his commitment to Illinois and our country will definitely be missed.

Jerry has served on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and has helped enact national highway policy to improve our country's roads and bridges. This is a bipartisan issue and after nine term extensions I am glad that this Congress came together to pass the first multiyear highway bill since 2005. Jerry has been extremely strong on transportation and infrastructure issues and future representatives will have large shoes to fill.

Jerry is a committed family man and early on in my first term, I quickly realized how hard it is to be away from your wife and children so frequently. I respect him for keeping his family home in Illinois, traveling to DC to serve, and returning home. Public service is about serving the people, not serving one's own self.

Over the past 24 years, the people of the 12th district have been fortunate to call Jerry Costello their Congressman. His leadership, bipartisanship, hard work, and dedication to public service will not soon be forgotten. On behalf of the 17th district, I wish Congressman Costello a happy and healthy retirement. Than you for your service.