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Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Kevin Sprague for his 30 years of service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Over the last three decades, Kevin's steadfast devotion to the Soo Locks and the Upper Peninsula has ensured the economic and operational success of the locks and made him an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.
A graduate of South Lyon High School and Lawrence Technological University, Kevin worked as a mechanical engineer in the private sector before joining the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in June 1992. Throughout his 30-year career with USACE, he served as surveyor, Assistant Chief of the St. Mary's River Section, Chief of Soo Lock Operations, Chief of Facility Maintenance Branch, Assistant Soo Area Engineer, and Soo Area Engineer--a position he has held for 12 years.
Kevin's efforts have played a crucial role in the success of the Soo Locks, which is a vital infrastructure system for not only the Great Lakes region, but the entire country. His leadership overseeing the operations and ongoing expansion of the Soo Locks have greatly benefited the region.
In addition to this project, Kevin worked diligently to improve the Soo Area Office to benefit his coworkers and community. This included reorganizing the local office to provide more opportunities in professional development, improving budgetary capabilities, and addressing safety concerns for workers. Over the pandemic, he also assisted in converting three storage containers into intensive care units (ICUs) for those affected by COVID-19. These efforts brought needed relief and assistance to the local community, and USACE's collaboration with local medical exports helped this project become a huge success.
Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Kevin Sprague for his 30 years of service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated and selfless citizen. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Mr. Sprague all the best in his future endeavors.
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