Congressman David Kustoff Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday by Honoring West Tennessee’s Finest Across TN-08

MEMPHIS, TN - Last week, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN-08) toured across Tennessee's 8th Congressional District to present flags flown over the U.S. Capitol to West Tennesseans whose service and hard work have helped shape America's story for 250 years..

"America's 250th birthday is an opportunity to honor the people who keep our country moving forward," said Congressman Kustoff."Here in West Tennessee, that spirit is alive in the men and women who serve their neighbors and strengthen our communities. It was an honor to recognize West Tennessee's finest and present them with flags flown over the U.S. Capitol."

As part of the tour, Congressman Kustoff honored Major Billy Gene Key, an Army Reserve servicemember who was injured during a drone strike while deployed to Kuwait; and Larry Marshall, a U.S. Army veteran who received a flag in honor of his father, Phillip G. Marshall.

The tour included stops with local businesses, farms, first responders, educators, law enforcement, and community organizations across TN-08, where Congressman Kustoff presented flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, including:

Shelby County

- Ducks Unlimited: Met with Ducks Unlimited leadership to discuss habitat conservation and recognize the organization's work protecting wetlands and waterfowl habitat.

- Bartlett Fire Station 1: Thanked Bartlett firefighters for their service to the Bartlett community.

- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: Joined TWRA officers on the Mississippi River and recognized their work protecting Tennessee's waterways.

- Agricenter International: Met with agricultural leaders and toured the Helena research facility at Agricenter International.

- Dinstuhl's Chocolate Factory: Toured the historic Memphis business and recognized its longtime contributions to the Mid-South.

Fayette County

- Rhea Farm: Visited with farm owner Scott Rhea to discuss the Farm Bill, rising input costs, and West Tennessee agriculture.

- Fayette County Sheriff's Office: Met with Sheriff Bobby Riles and deputies to thank them for their service to Fayette County.

Haywood County

- Mallard Estates: Met with farm owners and Mallard Estates operators Blake and Monte McWilliams to discuss agriculture, land management, and outdoor recreation in West Tennessee.

- Haywood County Sheriff's Office: Met with Sheriff Billy Garrett and recognized his years of service to Haywood County.

Crockett County

- Tennessee Tractor: Visited with Tennessee Tractor leadership to discuss agriculture, equipment needs, and the farming economy.

- Yukon Outfitters: Toured this West Tennessee small business and discussed its growth and work in the outdoor products industry.

Madison County

- Life Flight Air Evac: Recognized Air Evac crew members for their lifesaving emergency medical work across West Tennessee.

- Lifeline Blood Services: Visited Lifeline Blood Services to highlight its role in supporting patients and medical facilities across the region.

Chester County

- Freed-Hardeman University: Met with new university president Dr. Keith Harris.

Gibson County

- Luckey Farms: Visited with farm owner Jason Luckey and his family to discuss agriculture and the needs of Gibson County farmers.

- Milan Box Corporation: Toured the longtime Milan manufacturer and discussed its work supporting industrial packaging and local jobs.

Carroll County

- Carroll County 911 Center: Toured the new 911 center and recognized local emergency communications personnel.

- Huntingdon Football Team: Honored the Huntingdon football team for winning the 2A state championship.

Henderson County

- AutoZone Distribution Center: Toured the Lexington distribution center and recognized its role as one of the area's largest employers.

- Veterans Honor Guard of Parker's Crossroads: Recognized the volunteer veterans who provide military honors at funerals across West Tennessee.

These visits highlighted the service and patriotism of West Tennesseans who strengthen their communities and represent the very best of Tennessee's 8th Congressional District.

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