Rubén Hinojosa: “it is a great honor to stand before my colleagues today to pay homage to a man who has benefitted us all. Mr. Robert…”

“it is a great honor to stand before my colleagues today to pay homage to a man who has benefitted us all. Mr. Robert Langford, the senior vice president of production operations of Owens' Country Sausage has retired after 35 years of service. Robert, a graduate of both Texas A&M University and Southern Methodist University was hired by Jerry Owens in 1963. Mr. Owens recognized Robert's talents and quickly promoted him to manager of engineering. In 1972, he became the general manager and was continually advanced through the ranks until he reached his present position, the senior vice president of production operations. Due in large part to his work and innovations, Robert led the Owens Corporation to gain the number one market share position in the Southwest, which it still enjoys to this day. These accomplishments are quite impressive, yet they are only one aspect of Robert F. Langford's life. Robert also worked extensively with the Southwest Meat Association. He was the president of SMA from 1978 to 1980 and composed its bylaws and mission statement. But Robert was not content to merely serve the SMA. He wanted to serve his community as well. To realize this goal, Robert became one of the three founders of the Southwest Meat Association's Education Foundation as well as its chairman from 1982 to 1998. The Education Foundation provides scholarships to deserving students who display an interest and aptitude for a career in the meat industry.”