Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the remarkable life of an honorable patriot, the late Lois Bouton of Rogers, Arkansas. She died recently at the age of 102. Most know her lovingly as the Coast Guard Lady, but that nickname didn't just stem from 20 years as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla on Beaver Lake in Arkansas. During World War II she enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard Women's Reserve, where she acted as a radio operator. She was discharged in 1945 from the SPARs. That is the acronym reflecting the Coast Guard's motto: Semper Paratus-Always Ready. However, her passion for service never left. Lois made it a point to visit with wounded and recovering military members, always taking particular care to find her fellow Coasties. This was just the start of her mission to uplift others. She tirelessly wrote over 100,000 handwritten letters to greet and encourage personnel. Her words have crossed oceans and seas, reaching legions of Coast Guard members and their families all over the world. Her dedication earned her the rank of Honorary Master Chief Petty Officer, Department of Defense Spirit of Hope Award, the U.S. Coast Guard Distinguished Public Service Award, and more. But she always maintained that her greatest accomplishment was the joy she helped spread. I want the Nation to know of this extraordinary American. Fair winds and following seas to the beloved Coast Guard Lady from Arkansas. ____________________”