Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-10

RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER

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On 2026-06-10, Representative Joseph D. Morelle (D-NY-25) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER" in the House.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 98 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 98 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E562] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER ______ HON. JOSEPH D. MORELLE of new york in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 10, 2026 Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to leadership, service, and academic excellence has earned him admission to the United States Air Force Academy: James Kester. Throughout his years at Fairport High School, James distinguished himself as a leader both in the classroom and in his community. As an Eagle Scout, he dedicated countless hours to serving others, demonstrating a commitment to teamwork, responsibility, and selfless service. He further developed those leadership skills as captain of his football team, where he learned the importance of setting an example, supporting his teammates, and fostering success through collective effort. Balancing these responsibilities with an outstanding academic record, James consistently embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. For James, a commitment to service is deeply rooted in family tradition. Coming from a five-generation military family, he was inspired from an early age by the example of those who answered the call to serve our Nation. Drawn to the Air Force Academy's mission of developing leaders of character, he recognized an opportunity to continue that legacy while preparing himself for a lifetime of service. His dedication to duty, leadership, and country makes him exceptionally well-suited for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Mr. Speaker, I am confident that James Kester will continue to make the Rochester community proud as he embarks on his journey at the United States Air Force Academy. I congratulate him on this remarkable achievement and extend my very best wishes for continued success in the years ahead. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 98 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 98 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E562] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JAMES KESTER ______ HON. JOSEPH D. MORELLE of new york in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 10, 2026 Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to leadership, service, and academic excellence has earned him admission to the United States Air Force Academy: James Kester. Throughout his years at Fairport High School, James distinguished himself as a leader both in the classroom and in his community. As an Eagle Scout, he dedicated countless hours to serving others, demonstrating a commitment to teamwork, responsibility, and selfless service. He further developed those leadership skills as captain of his football team, where he learned the importance of setting an example, supporting his teammates, and fostering success through collective effort. Balancing these responsibilities with an outstanding academic record, James consistently embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. For James, a commitment to service is deeply rooted in family tradition. Coming from a five-generation military family, he was inspired from an early age by the example of those who answered the call to serve our Nation. Drawn to the Air Force Academy's mission of developing leaders of character, he recognized an opportunity to continue that legacy while preparing himself for a lifetime of service. His dedication to duty, leadership, and country makes him exceptionally well-suited for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Mr. Speaker, I am confident that James Kester will continue to make the Rochester community proud as he embarks on his journey at the United States Air Force Academy. I congratulate him on this remarkable achievement and extend my very best wishes for continued success in the years ahead. ____________________