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[Page S4820]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
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TRIBUTE TO VERMALENE SMITH
Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize
Vermalene Smith for her outstanding commitment to supporting our
military, our veterans, their families, and her community.
Born in Leachville, AR, Vermalene attended various schools in
northeast Arkansas before furthering her education at Memphis State
University where she earned her bachelor's degree in accounting and
minored in business management. She utilized her acquired skills in a
successful accounting career, as well as a decorated career in real
estate. The combination of knowledge and community involvement she
possessed prepared her for the role she took with former U.S. Senator
Tim Hutchinson as senior coordinator for the State of Arkansas. She
also went on to serve Lieutenant Governor Win Rockefeller as his
financial director and volunteered for the Craighead County Veterans
Service Office before becoming the county's full-time veterans service
officer in 2009.
In this role, Vermalene plans, organizes, and directs the activities
of the County Veterans Service office. From preparing claims for
veterans to personally counseling them and their dependents, she has
maintained her devotion to fighting for those who fought for us at home
and abroad. She has been instrumental in conducting the annual military
ball, an event that attracts hundreds of participants including
veterans, servicemembers, civic leaders, and local JROTC cadets and
their guests and has also played an important role in the Welcome Home
Vietnam Veterans event. Vermalene serves as an inspiration and example
to us all and has had a positive impact on countless lives through her
diligent efforts and advocacy.
In addition to all of her work for veterans, Vermalene has
exemplified what it means to be a good steward of her community. Some
of her many roles have included Cub Scout leader, Sunday school
teacher, and president of the parent teachers association. She also
founded the Northeast Arkansas Republican Women and Northeast Arkansas
Veterans Action Clergy organizations. Her involvement continues to
impress as she served as chairman of the Craighead County Republican
Party and 1st congressional District secretary. Her dedication has
enhanced her community immensely and earned her many prestigious honors
along the way.
Her numerous awards include Business of Professional Women's Club
Woman of the Year, Million Dollar Producer, and the Frank Lady
Leadership Award. It comes as no surprise that she also received the
Customer Service Award from American Legion Post 53 located in West
Memphis, AR, and American Legion District 5, which includes the
majority of northeast Arkansas.
Vermalene has spent her career working to advance the needs of
veterans and improve Arkansas. Our State is a better place because of
her. I wish Vermalene well as she begins her well-deserved
retirement.
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