Recognizing the Life of William K. Nichols

Floor Speech

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Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Deputy William Nichols, who passed away on Wednesday, July 22, after heroically rescuing his son from a rip current at Fort Walton Beach.

William was born on January 15, 1987, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He was a humble and kind man who always put others before himself. His passion for search and rescue began at a young age after watching his father oversee the county's search-and-rescue unit. His love for others, coupled with his selflessness, allowed him to follow in his father's footsteps and pursue a career in search-and-rescue with DeSoto County.

He began his career as a volunteer and would later serve as a senior officer and Sergeant with the sheriffs department. Like his father, he was then promoted to director of the search-and-rescue unit and would oversee the unit for the following seven years.

Outside of his passion for search-and-rescue, William was a faithful member of Cornerstone Church and served as the Explorer Advisor through the Boy Scouts of America. Other than holding numerous specialized certifications in his field, William also served as a NASCAR instructor and lead evaluator and was also an NRA instructor.

William died a hero, and his heroism will not be forgotten as William's last act of service was saving his son. His life was one of service, grace, and love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all whom he encountered.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Lindsay Nichols; his daughter, Leah Langtson; and his son, William Nichols; as well as many other friends and extended family members.

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