Recognizing Wilson County Sheriff Joe D. Tackitt, Jr.
Floor Speech
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Mr. CUELLAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sheriff Joe D. Tackitt, Jr. after 28 years of dedication and service to Wilson County, Texas.
Sheriff Tackitt was elected in 1992 and over the course of his career, he worked tirelessly to keep his community safe. Through his hard work and efforts, he helped bring the Criminal Justice Center to Wilson County and improved communications across the sheriff's office while saving taxpayer money. He also increased the number of full-time deputies on patrol to 25 and secured a nearly $7 million budget. In addition, he created the Sheriff Santa Program to help families in need during the holidays.
I have worked with my friend Sheriff Tackitt for several years and witnessed first-hand the important work he has done for his community. We must never forget his leadership during the tragedy at Sutherland Springs Church in 2017 and how much he cared for his community as a third-generation native of Wilson County. The dedication that he showed to others should be a constant reminder of how we should be in our daily lives.
For his leadership and service, Sheriff Tackitt has received several awards. In 2018, his office was presented with the EMS Telecommunicator Award by the Texas Department of State Health Services for outstanding achievement. In addition, the Sheriffs' Association of Texas recognized Sheriff Tackitt and his staff in 2019 for the outstanding support they provided for the 141st Annual Training Conference and Expo.
In addition to his hard work as sheriff, he is active in his community as a member of the Sheriff's Association of Texas, the Floresville Lions Club, and the Texas Jail Association. Along with his involvement in the community, he also served as a member of the Texas Air National Guard and is a devoted family man.
As we move forward, let us take the time to appreciate the service of heroes like Sheriff Tackitt and all the individuals who risk their lives each day to keep us safe. However, in the words of President John F. Kennedy, ``As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.''
Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the career and service of Sheriff Tackitt.
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