[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 201 (Wednesday, December 6, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1178]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION FOR SPECIALIST KELVIN HICKS

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                            HON. PAT FALLON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 6, 2023

  Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Specialist Kelvin 
Hicks of Lamar, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran 
Commendation. Specialist Hicks honorably served in the United States 
Army in the Iraq War and the Global War on Terrorism.
  Since he was a young man, Specialist Hicks knew he wanted to serve 
his country and contribute to a greater cause. In 2000, Specialist 
Hicks Joined the Army and served as an Automated Logistical Specialist 
at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He was deployed to Iraq and Kuwait, where he 
was tasked with the management of military equipment and timely 
deliveries of crucial supplies for our troops.
  After returning to civilian service, Specialist Hicks has continued 
to make an impact on his community in many ways. He worked as the 
Safety and Security Director for Marriott Hotels & Resorts and as a 
Child Welfare Specialist for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. 
Here, Specialist Hicks devoted much of his time and efforts to 
supporting a teenager that was placed under his care. Even when faced 
with overwhelming odds, including homelessness, Specialist Hicks made 
numerous sacrifices to ensure that his ward's needs are being met. His 
willingness to put the needs of others above his own is an 
extraordinary display of courage and selfless service.
  Specialist Hicks currently serves as the Upward Bound College Prep 
Program Coordinator at Paris Junior College where he helps students 
from low-income families pursue postsecondary education. In addition, 
he is an inspirational speaker and takes opportunities to mentor and 
advocate for our youth so that they will be successful. Specialist 
Hicks is a devoted man of faith, and he serves as the Chaplain and 
Associate Minister at the St. Paul Baptist Church in Paris. I commend 
Specialist Hicks for his devotion to uplifting and empowering our 
students.
  I am honored to represent Specialist Hicks in Texas' 4th 
Congressional District. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional 
Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and to the people of 
North Texas.

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