HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAMUEL "SAM" DOUGHERTY

On 2026-08-06, Representative Tim Walberg (R-MI-5) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAMUEL "SAM" DOUGHERTY" in the House.

HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAMUEL "SAM" DOUGHERTY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 129 (Thursday, August 6, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 129 (Thursday, August 6, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E775] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAMUEL ``SAM'' DOUGHERTY _____ HON. TIM WALBERG of michigan in the house of representatives Thursday, August 6, 2026 Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Samuel ``Sam'' Dougherty of East Leroy as the Veteran of the Month for August and honor him for his service on behalf of a grateful Nation. Sam served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a Combat Engineer from 1988 to 1994. Following his service, Sam continued his lifelong commitment to serving others by investing his time and talents in his local community. He joined the Construction Laborers Local 355 and has contributed significantly to the region through his service on the boards of the Leila Arboretum Society and the Kalamazoo Area Labor Management. His compassion extends even further through his involvement with CityLinC Foster Care and Adoption and the Advanced Manufacturing Career Consortium, demonstrating his dedication to creating opportunities and support systems for families and workers across Michigan. Sam also started a pre-apprenticeship program serving veterans and worked as the Director of Southwest Michigan Operations for the Michigan Workforce Development Institute, where he oversaw workforce programs, built strong regional partnerships, and helped job seekers, including veterans, find stable, meaningful employment. His reputation as a collaborative, strategic leader made him an invaluable asset to regional economic development efforts. Since 2024, Sam has served as the Michigan State Representative for Helmets to Hardhats, a national nonprofit organization that connects military service members, veterans, and reservists with quality careers in the building trades. Sam ensures that those who have served our country receive the opportunities, care, and support they deserve as they transition into civilian life. Sam also served as a volunteer for a freedom hunt for disabled veterans at Fort Custer for 20 years and currently volunteers with the Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior Program, offering steadfast support to those who have borne the heaviest burdens of war. For his volunteer work with veterans, he has been awarded the Marine Corps League Distinguished Citizen Award. Sam Dougherty's faithful service and continued commitment to both our Nation's armed services and Michigan's local communities should serve as an inspiration to us all. May others know of my high regard for Sam, as well as my deep gratitude for his lasting contributions to the country we love. ____________________