Asa Hutchinson: “I am pleased today to recognize a personal friend and distinguished businessman from my district, Don Soderquist. Don is…”

“I am pleased today to recognize a personal friend and distinguished businessman from my district, Don Soderquist. Don is the chairman of the board of the International Mass Retail Association [IMRA], and vice chairman and chief operating officer of Wal-Mart Stores, and in both capacities has shown a tireless commitment to this country and the principles on which it was built. This month, Don is ending his term as chairman of the IMRA, the trade association that represents the vibrant mass-retailing industry. Don has been involved with discount and mass retailing since 1964, when he began his retailing career with Ben Franklin Stores. He joined Wal-Mart in 1980 as senior vice president. Throughout his career, he has exemplified the work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Don is characterized by the depth of his personal commitments to his family, his church, and his community. I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting Don Soderquist as a devoted family man and dedicated business leader. While his leadership at IMRA will be missed, we wish him the best of luck at Wal-Mart and in his other endeavors.”