Recognizing Congressional Patriot Award Recipient Pat Terrell

Floor Speech

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Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Patrick ``Pat'' Terrell of Burr Ridge, Illinois, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Pat has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

After receiving over forty Division I scholarship offers, Pat ultimately decided to play football at the University of Notre Dame as a member of the Fighting Irish's 1988 National Championship team. He graduated in 1990 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and a minor in international marketing. During the 1990 NFL Draft, Pat was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Rams and part of the 1990 All-Rookie Team. He also played with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and Green Bay Packers from 1994 to 1998. After retiring from football in 1999, Pat flew corporate jets for United Airlines and Delta Air Lines before becoming a Captain at American Trans Air, now ATA Airlines. Moreover, he founded Terrell Materials, a very successful company that specializes in high-volume concrete manufacturing for runways and taxiways at major airports.

Understanding the power of influence, Pat served as a role model and leader. He advocated for many of his teammates during pivotal moments in their lives and has been involved in many community advancement initiatives. Alongside his wife Beth, Pat founded Team Terrell to help promote and fundraise for the American Diabetes Association. He also served as a regional spokesman for United Way and was honored as an NFL Player representative for the United Negro College Fund. During his time as a pilot, Pat volunteered to transport hundreds of American and allied troops through the Middle East during Operation Iraqi Freedom. On top of that, Pat and Beth have poured countless hours into volunteering with local schools, educational programs, and park district programs.

It is an honor to bestow Pat with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to our Nation. I thank him for all he has done.

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