C. W. Bill Young: “I yield myself 2 minutes to pay tribute to a longtime staffer of this defense subcommittee. This is the first time that…”

“I yield myself 2 minutes to pay tribute to a longtime staffer of this defense subcommittee. This is the first time that I have had the opportunity to bring a defense appropriations bill to the floor without having Kevin Roper sitting here beside me and providing the staff assistance that he has provided so eloquently. He served this committee for 20 years, first as the aide to the then- ranking member, Congressman Joe McDade. Prior to the 20 years that he served this committee in the minority status and the majority status, he served 10 years in the United States Air Force. Kevin Roper is just a very, very special patriot. His knowledge of the defense establishment, his knowledge of the defense appropriations bill is extremely unique. I am just really proud to call him a friend. I am very, very heavyhearted to announce that he is leaving the committee to move on to spending more time with his family, his wife, and his children. Mr. Chairman, I would like to recognize the fact that this Kevin Roper that I am speaking about, everyone on the floor should recognize him. He has been here so long. Kevin Roper, God bless you for the good work you have done. Thank you very much. We appreciate you. Mr.…”