Recognizing the Life and Service of Commissioner Dick Hall

Floor Speech

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Mr. GUEST. Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize the life of former Mississippi Transportation Commissioner, Dick Hall. Commissioner Hall committed his life to the service of his fellow man through a long and distinguished career, and I rise today to recognize him as a dedicated leader whose example will continue to inspire many who wish to make the world around them a better place for their neighbors, friends, and family.

As a transportation commissioner for the State of Mississippi for over 20 years, Commissioner Hall was an outspoken advocate for providing additional revenue to improve Mississippi's infrastructure system. Before being elected to this post, Commissioner Hall served for three terms in the Mississippi Senate and three terms in the Mississippi House of Representatives, representing my home county of Rankin in the State Legislature throughout a noteworthy career. Commissioner Hall also served our country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army.

Commissioner Hall was fond of saying, ``We're not just building a transportation system. We're building an economy,'' which was a quip that was born out in the many projects he spearheaded. He oversaw the opening of the U.S. Highway 82 Mississippi River Bridge; the widening of Lakeland Drive in Jackson; the Highway 463 Single Point Urban Interchange project in Madison; two phases of the STACK interchange connecting Jackson, Pearl, and Brandon; projects throughout the Metro Jackson area from Canton to Crystal Springs; the Nissan Parkway; and countless rehabilitation projects throughout Mississippi's Central District. Commissioner Hall's tireless effort was vital in creating a modern infrastructure system and a strong Mississippi economy that has created better lives for those who call our state home.

For his numerous accomplishments and industrious spirit, Commissioner Hall received many accolades and awards, including the Hugh L. White Free Enterprise Award, the Friend of Education Award, Conservation Legislator of the Year, and Alumnus of the Year by the Mid-Mississippi Chapter of the Mississippi State University Alumni Association.

Commissioner Hall was an extraordinary person who will be remembered by those who had the pleasure of meeting him or working alongside him. His legacy of a deep respect and dedication to our state will endure.

It is my honor to recognize the life of Commissioner Dick Hall for the many contributions he made to our state and our Nation, and I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing his service and commitment to Mississippi and to the United States of America.

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