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Rep. Bennie Thompson

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a fine patriot and noble member of his community, Mr. Bennie Dotson. Mr. Dotson was born September 9, 1923, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He is the younger of two children born to the late Mr. Ben and Mrs. Mary Dotson.

Mr. Dotson's early years of education began at Dunbar Elementary School in Warren County, Mississippi. He later attended Grange Hall Elementary School culminating with an eighth grade education.

At the age of 18, Mr. Dotson entered the United States Army and served in the European War. He received his basic training at Camp Shelby in Mississippi, after which, he served tours of duty in England, France, Belgium, and Germany.

After leaving the United States Army, Mr. Dotson worked at Anderson Tully Lumber Company in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where he retired after 45 years of service. Mr. Dotson has continued to serve as a lay member of Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church for many years.

Mr. Dotson was happily married to his late wife of 57 years, Mrs. Lorraine Dotson, and together they raised one child, Ruby McDonald. He also has a host of nieces and nephews that love and care for him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Bennie Dotson for his dedication to our country and his commitment to serving others.