Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-07-09

RECOGNIZING COLONEL THOMAS AKERS

Context

On 2026-07-09, Representative Jason Smith (R-MO-8) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING COLONEL THOMAS AKERS" in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E665-E666] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING COLONEL THOMAS AKERS _____ HON. JASON SMITH of missouri in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Colonel Tom Akers of Eminence, Missouri, on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor that reflects a lifetime of extraordinary service, achievement, and dedication to our Nation. Born and raised in the Missouri Ozarks, Tom Akers exemplifies the values of hard work, perseverance, and patriotism that define our state. After earning his degree in applied mathematics, he served our country with distinction as an officer and pilot in the United States Air Force, demonstrating the leadership and commitment that would become hallmarks of his remarkable career. In 1987, Tom Akers was selected by NASA to join its astronaut corps, beginning a chapter of service that would place him among the pioneers of America's space program. Beyond his accomplishments in orbit, Tom Akers has served as an inspiration to countless young people across Missouri and the Nation. His [[Page E666]] journey from the small town of Eminence to the frontiers of space demonstrates that determination, education, and service can open doors to extraordinary opportunities. His achievements have brought great pride to the people of Missouri, particularly those in the Ozarks who have followed his career with admiration. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame honors individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on our Nation's space program, and Tom Akers is unquestionably deserving of this recognition. His dedication to scientific discovery, national service, and the advancement of human spaceflight has earned him a place among the most distinguished astronauts in American history. It is my privilege to recognize Colonel Akers on this significant achievement, and I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and in thanking him for his many contributions to our Nation and the state of Missouri. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING COLONEL THOMAS AKERS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E665-E666] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING COLONEL THOMAS AKERS _____ HON. JASON SMITH of missouri in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Colonel Tom Akers of Eminence, Missouri, on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor that reflects a lifetime of extraordinary service, achievement, and dedication to our Nation. Born and raised in the Missouri Ozarks, Tom Akers exemplifies the values of hard work, perseverance, and patriotism that define our state. After earning his degree in applied mathematics, he served our country with distinction as an officer and pilot in the United States Air Force, demonstrating the leadership and commitment that would become hallmarks of his remarkable career. In 1987, Tom Akers was selected by NASA to join its astronaut corps, beginning a chapter of service that would place him among the pioneers of America's space program. Beyond his accomplishments in orbit, Tom Akers has served as an inspiration to countless young people across Missouri and the Nation. His [[Page E666]] journey from the small town of Eminence to the frontiers of space demonstrates that determination, education, and service can open doors to extraordinary opportunities. His achievements have brought great pride to the people of Missouri, particularly those in the Ozarks who have followed his career with admiration. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame honors individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on our Nation's space program, and Tom Akers is unquestionably deserving of this recognition. His dedication to scientific discovery, national service, and the advancement of human spaceflight has earned him a place among the most distinguished astronauts in American history. It is my privilege to recognize Colonel Akers on this significant achievement, and I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and in thanking him for his many contributions to our Nation and the state of Missouri. ____________________