Celebrating the Life of Dr. James Richard Rutledge

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF DR. JAMES RICHARD RUTLEDGE -- (House of Representatives - October 07, 2004)

(Mr. ADERHOLT asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, it is with sadness that I rise this morning to remember the life of Dr. James Rutledge, who recently passed away at the age of 65. I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation to recognize some of his many accomplishments.

He was born in Ironton, Ohio. He was educated in Kentucky. He joined the air force after receiving his degree in medicine. He served his country honorably, and for his service in Thailand during the Vietnam War, he attained the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Jim and his wife Rhonda moved their family to Jasper, Alabama, which is located in the Fourth Congressional District in February of 1980, and he served as the medical director of laboratory medicine at Walker Baptist Medical Center.

Dr. Jim Rutledge was a man who loved his God, his wife Rhonda, his family and his country. He was a true American hero to so many during his life. He was a man many depended upon, a man of little fanfare but deep wisdom and compassion.

Our prayers continue to go out to Jim's family, friends and community at this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I could go on much longer about this man but time does not permit. However, I will put an extended tribute to Dr. Rutledge in the RECORD.