HR0605 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0605 LRB103 39355 MST 69518 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to recognize Tom Carper for his remarkable contributions to the City of Macomb, the State of Illinois, and the nation's rail infrastructure; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper, a former Mayor of Macomb and a recently retired member of the Amtrak Board of Directors, has exhibited an unwavering commitment to public service and transportation excellence; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper is the longest-tenured board member in the history of Amtrak, a testament to his dedication and leadership; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper's tenure on the Amtrak Board of Directors began in 2008 following his nomination by President Bush and continued through subsequent reappointments, including one by President Obama; he has served with distinction under four different presidents, showcasing his bipartisan and dedicated approach to governance; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper, in his role as chairman of the board from 2009 until the expiration of his term in 2013 and beyond through his reappointment, championed critical issues, such as ensuring service to underserved communities, bolstering local economies, and enhancing safety and cybersecurity measures, thereby embodying the spirit of public service; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper has consistently been a champion of the Illinois passenger rail network, helping deliver historic capital investments from the American Rescue and Recovery Act and serving as a leader of the successful coalition that pushed for increased passenger rail service throughout the State of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper's leadership extended beyond his national service to include significant local contributions as the mayor of Macomb for over a decade and as a director of a regional economic development plan, positions through which he gained invaluable insights into economic development and community service in the Midwest; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper's military service in the U.S. Army in Thailand and Vietnam and his leadership in both local and national capacities reflect his profound commitment to his country and community; and

WHEREAS, Tom Carper's deep understanding of the importance of passenger rail service and his efforts to modernize America's transportation infrastructure have left an indelible mark on the nation and particularly on the State of Illinois; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize Tom Carper for his remarkable contributions to the City of Macomb, the State of Illinois, and the nation's rail infrastructure and extend our heartfelt gratitude for his years of service and dedication; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Tom Carper as a symbol of our deep appreciation for his exemplary service and as a token of our best wishes for his future endeavors.