Antique Tractor Preservation Day

Floor Speech

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Mr. MARSHALL. Madam President, today, I rise to pay tribute to an observance that honors the thousands of Americans who devote their daily toils to the excellence of our Nation's agriculture industry. That observance is embodied in a new celebration: Antique Tractor Preservation Day, observed in Kansas on August 22.

As a Senator from Kansas, my devotion to our State's leading role in American agriculture has been a cornerstone of my tenure. As a fifth- generation farm kid, I understand firsthand that the success of agriculture would not be possible without the tractors that facilitate its development. It is therefore imperative to mark Antique Tractor Preservation Day in the Congressional Record. In doing so, we pay homage to antique tractors, which symbolize American agriculture.

A focus on antique tractors is of particular importance. Uplifting antique tractors allows the public to appreciate the impressive spirit of innovation that has driven continued improvement in the efficiency of today's tractors, resulting in a direct improvement of the modern farming sector. A specified day to celebrate antique tractors and display them in various venues empowers families who own these tractors to preserve their farming heritage by sharing stories with a wide audience. Educational opportunities regarding our Nation's farming history are crucial to the continuance of this essential industry. Antique Tractor Preservation Day offers such an opportunity. Just as friendships have been forged on tractors for over a century, so, too, does the observance of Antique Tractor Preservation Day provide an occasion to solidify the bonds of fellowship between farming enthusiasts and those who have not yet learned about the significance of antique tractors.

A special mention must be made to Mr. Michael Hinton, a native Kansan who has committed his efforts to educating the American public about antique tractors and the legacy they represent. Mr. Hinton pioneered the concept of Antique Tractor Preservation Day and maintains a tremendously helpful website at talkingtractors.com, which serves as a resource for those who seek to learn more about tractors and agriculture. For his distinguished passion and efforts, I am grateful.

I now ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Antique Tractor Preservation Day and, in so doing, the storied legacy of American agriculture, which is paramount to our Nation's merit.

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