Tribute in Honor of Pat Wooton

Floor Speech

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Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of a long-time friend and advisor, Mr. Dennis Patrick ``Pat'' Wooton, one of Buckhorn, Kentucky's most beloved sons. His experience in education, law enforcement, coaching, local government operations and politics made him one of the most well-known and well- versed leaders in the Kentucky River area. It was his charming, encouraging and quick-witted personality that enabled him to become an instant friend to everyone he met along the way, and I count myself blessed to have been a part of his expansive friendship circle.

When I needed someone to transition field operations in Eastern Kentucky from my Congressional Office in Hazard, Pat Wooton was my top choice. As the former Pen-y County Sheriff, Pat was one of the first leaders in law enforcement to partner with Operation UNITE. He was determined to impact the prescription drug abuse epidemic that first ravaged our region 20 years ago. During a time when the stigma surrounding drug abuse paralyzed our communities, Pat stood strong in the face of adversity, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Operation UNITE to save lives and transform our region.

No one knew or loved the intricate facets of Perry County and life in the mountains, more than he did. As my Eastern Kentucky field man, Pat worked directly with local leaders across more than a dozen counties, bridging communications and funding resources for vital projects like infrastructure expansions, roadway enhancements, local emergency disaster response, economic development projects, and much more. His advocacy for improving communities in Eastern Kentucky was inspiring. When Pat entered a meeting, no one had to guess where he was from, because the City of Buckhorn was always at the top of his list for project needs. Naturally, when he retired from his post in my Congressional office, he served as mayor of his hometown.

Pat thrived on serving others throughout his entire life, starting in the Vietnam War, when the U.S. Anny honored him with several service medals, including the Bronze Star. After returning to American soil, he dedicated his service to educating and coaching students at Buckhorn High School, where he became one of the most highly respected and loved principals in the school's history. He took education to a new level, focusing as much on mentoring and inspiring young people, as he did teaching textbook material.

Whether he was serving on local community boards, coaching young athletes, enhancing education and law enforcement in one of the most rural parts of the country, or simply meeting someone for the first time, Pat Wooton made a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His ability to recite memorable Eastern Kentucky expressions stirred many smiles and laughs over the years among friends and associates.

As we remember our dear friend, may we carry forward Pat's legacy of service and kindness in the years to come. My wife, Cynthia and I, extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Veda, their children, grandchildren, and all those who were blessed to know and love such a great man.

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