Congratulating Andy Collins on His Retirement

Floor Speech

Date: Feb. 25, 2026
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. BURCHETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my dear friend, Andy Collins, a lieutenant game warden retiring after 33 impressive years of service to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

Andy grew up in Knoxville and graduated from my alma mater, Bearden High School. He attended the University of Tennessee and earned a degree in fisheries and wildlife sciences. He began his career in Hawkins County before moving south to Loudon County. His responsibilities eventually expanded to include 11 counties in east Tennessee, covering all of Tennessee's Second District.

Throughout his 33-year career, Andy has exemplified the mission of preserving, protecting, and enhancing the State's fish and wildlife. Andy knows more about wildlife than anyone I know. As a matter of fact, he has forgotten more than I will ever know. When I run into a problem on my farm, he is the first person I call. Whether it is with deer or turkey or anything else, he is always quick to pick up my call.

Andy will spend his retirement days doing what he loves best: spending time outdoors with his beautiful wife, Mary Jo; his son, Wyatt; and his daughter, Emily.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Andy on his achievement. I thank him so much for his service to our great country and to the beautiful State of Tennessee. It is a much better place because of folks like him and the great folks at TWRA.

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