The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRIBUTE TO NEIL ADKERSON
______
HON. BARRY LOUDERMILK
of georgia
in the house of representatives
Thursday, July 29, 2021
Mr. LOUDERMILK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who exemplified the hard-working, blue collar life that is the backbone of our Nation. On February 23, of this year, the Lord called Neil Adkerson to his heavenly home at the young age of forty-six; but, in those forty-six years, Neil achieved the most important aspects of the American dream.
Coming from a childhood where love was plentiful, but means were scarce, Neil understood early the values of family bonds, of a strong work ethic, and of self-reliance. He never sought fame, and always shied away from recognition. Anytime he helped a friend or neighbor, which was often, he always did it with a smile. Neil worked long hours to make a modest living, and never complained about his life. He lived within his means, so he could provide for his family. His focus was on providing a happy, loving upbringing for his three stepsons, to which he only ever referred to as his sons. They are, in his words, his greatest contribution to this world.
Even in hard times, Neil always greeted people with a humble smile and a kind word. The one thing that that could raise his ire was someone disparaging the country that he loved dearly; and, even then, he would simply tell them why he believed America is the greatest country on earth, because it had given a poor boy from North Georgia so much freedom and opportunity.
In short, Neil Adkerson was a good man who loved God, loved his family, and loved his country. That, Madam Speaker, is the very essence of what it means to be an American.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 133
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