Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-04-16

HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL

EnvironmentDefenseCrime & Justice

Context

On 2026-04-16, Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered defense, crime and justice.

Full Text

HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E336-E337] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Thursday, April 16, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Deputy Patrick Shell, a devoted public servant from Vicksburg, who was recently named Deputy of the Year by the Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolent Club. This distinguished honor reflects his decades of unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community. A lifelong resident of Vicksburg, Deputy Shell began his career in public service in 1991 with the National Park Service, where he served with distinction as an interpreter specialist before rising through the ranks to become Chief Ranger and later District Supervisor along the Natchez Trace Parkway. His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the countless visitors he served. Following his retirement from the National Park Service, Deputy Shell answered the call to serve once more, joining the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Now in his eight year with the department, he continues to demonstrate exemplary service as a bailiff, while also carrying out critical responsibilities such as delivering summonses, escorting inmates, and patrolling the historic Vicksburg National Military Park, where he resides. Throughout more than three decades in law enforcement and public safety, Deputy Shell has encountered both the profound challenges and meaningful rewards that define a life of service. He has provided comfort in moments of tragedy, including assisting a young boy in coping with the loss of his father, and has also been instrumental in life-saving efforts, such as aiding a man experiencing a heart attack-- an act that contributed to the man's survival. These experiences underscore his compassion, professionalism, and steadfast dedication to others. Deputy Patrick Shell's recognition as Deputy of the Year is a testament not only to his exceptional career, but also to the enduring values of integrity, selflessness, and dedication that he embodies. His continued service stands as an inspiration to his fellow officers and to all who are fortunate to call Vicksburg home. Deputy Shell's commitment to service is matched by his devotion to family. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, since 1981, and together they have built a life grounded in faith, family, and community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Deputy Patrick Shell for his outstanding service and congratulating him on his well-deserved recognition. [[Page E337]] ____________________

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HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E336-E337] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DEPUTY PATRICK SHELL ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Thursday, April 16, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Deputy Patrick Shell, a devoted public servant from Vicksburg, who was recently named Deputy of the Year by the Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolent Club. This distinguished honor reflects his decades of unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community. A lifelong resident of Vicksburg, Deputy Shell began his career in public service in 1991 with the National Park Service, where he served with distinction as an interpreter specialist before rising through the ranks to become Chief Ranger and later District Supervisor along the Natchez Trace Parkway. His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the countless visitors he served. Following his retirement from the National Park Service, Deputy Shell answered the call to serve once more, joining the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Now in his eight year with the department, he continues to demonstrate exemplary service as a bailiff, while also carrying out critical responsibilities such as delivering summonses, escorting inmates, and patrolling the historic Vicksburg National Military Park, where he resides. Throughout more than three decades in law enforcement and public safety, Deputy Shell has encountered both the profound challenges and meaningful rewards that define a life of service. He has provided comfort in moments of tragedy, including assisting a young boy in coping with the loss of his father, and has also been instrumental in life-saving efforts, such as aiding a man experiencing a heart attack-- an act that contributed to the man's survival. These experiences underscore his compassion, professionalism, and steadfast dedication to others. Deputy Patrick Shell's recognition as Deputy of the Year is a testament not only to his exceptional career, but also to the enduring values of integrity, selflessness, and dedication that he embodies. His continued service stands as an inspiration to his fellow officers and to all who are fortunate to call Vicksburg home. Deputy Shell's commitment to service is matched by his devotion to family. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, since 1981, and together they have built a life grounded in faith, family, and community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Deputy Patrick Shell for his outstanding service and congratulating him on his well-deserved recognition. [[Page E337]] ____________________