Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-04-21

RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA

Defense

Context

On 2026-04-21, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA" in the Senate. The speech addressed defense. It referenced legislation including S1856, S9.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S1856] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA Mr. BUDD. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a significant milestone in Raeford, NC's history. This year, the city celebrates its 125th anniversary. Raeford's history began long before its municipal incorporation in 1901. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Gaelic-speaking Highland Scots settled in the region, and their heritage is still proudly celebrated today at historic sites like the Mill Prong House. The city's namesake is tied to its early pioneer spirit. In 1885, two influential residents, John McRae, a turpentine distillery operator, and A.A. Williford, a general store owner, established the name for the local post office by combining their names, ``Rae'' and ``ford.'' In 1899, the community's population grew as the Aberdeen and Rockfish Railroad was extended. This growth paved the way for Raeford's official municipal incorporation 125 years ago. Then, in 1911, the city of Raeford was rightfully designated as the county seat of the newly formed Hoke County. In 1918, Camp Bragg was established in Raeford during World War I. Today, Fort Bragg serves as America's 9-1-1 military force and is home to the elite 82nd Airborne Division and our Nation's Special Operations Forces. The military installation now occupies one-third of the land in Hoke County, and the city of Raeford remains a steadfast support system for our men and women in uniform and their families. Over the past 125 years, Raeford has built a storied history as a metropolitan hub with a smalltown feel and a tight-knit community. Residents of Raeford have gone on to proudly represent their city, their State, and their country as world-class athletes, Olympians, and, of course, military heroes. There is no doubt that the city of Raeford represents the best of North Carolina's spirit, driven by hard work and united by a deep sense of community. Please join me in celebrating 125 years of Raeford, NC's rich heritage and patriotic service. ____________________

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RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S1856] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF RAEFORD, NORTH CAROLINA Mr. BUDD. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a significant milestone in Raeford, NC's history. This year, the city celebrates its 125th anniversary. Raeford's history began long before its municipal incorporation in 1901. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Gaelic-speaking Highland Scots settled in the region, and their heritage is still proudly celebrated today at historic sites like the Mill Prong House. The city's namesake is tied to its early pioneer spirit. In 1885, two influential residents, John McRae, a turpentine distillery operator, and A.A. Williford, a general store owner, established the name for the local post office by combining their names, ``Rae'' and ``ford.'' In 1899, the community's population grew as the Aberdeen and Rockfish Railroad was extended. This growth paved the way for Raeford's official municipal incorporation 125 years ago. Then, in 1911, the city of Raeford was rightfully designated as the county seat of the newly formed Hoke County. In 1918, Camp Bragg was established in Raeford during World War I. Today, Fort Bragg serves as America's 9-1-1 military force and is home to the elite 82nd Airborne Division and our Nation's Special Operations Forces. The military installation now occupies one-third of the land in Hoke County, and the city of Raeford remains a steadfast support system for our men and women in uniform and their families. Over the past 125 years, Raeford has built a storied history as a metropolitan hub with a smalltown feel and a tight-knit community. Residents of Raeford have gone on to proudly represent their city, their State, and their country as world-class athletes, Olympians, and, of course, military heroes. There is no doubt that the city of Raeford represents the best of North Carolina's spirit, driven by hard work and united by a deep sense of community. Please join me in celebrating 125 years of Raeford, NC's rich heritage and patriotic service. ____________________