Representative Trent Kelly

July 13, 2021

Dear Friend,

When our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence, they were boldly saying to the world that America will always be a nation where we are free to practice our religious beliefs and express our thoughts. Scores of great patriots have paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our way of life, demonstrating an American spirit that continues to thrive.

On July 4, we celebrated Independence Day and the hard-fought effort to become a sovereign nation. Let us remember all those who have given all for our freedoms and the men and women in uniform who are watching over us at this hour. God Bless America.

honoring a world war ii veteran

In times of war and peace, Americans have always answered the call to serve. Claude Thomas "Buddy" Terrell, Jr., was just 17 years old when he left home and joined the U.S. Navy on December 17, 1941 - just ten days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Mr. Terrell served as a Gunner's Mate, 3rd class. He traveled to many ports in the world on various ships, performing convoy duty and submarine warfare. In August 1946, Mr. Terrell married Laura Christine "Chris" Gary. They had four children. He worked for the Memphis Fire Department and retired as a Captain in 1980.

From left: Kim Terrell, Dusty Hill, Bubba Terrell, and Leigh Anne Boyd

At 97, Mr. Terrell lives in Olive Branch and still drives to breakfast each day. He enjoys visiting with family members, including six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. We are thankful for this member of the greatest generation who demonstrates what it means to be a great American. "I am very proud to have served my country, and I still am. I would do it again," Mr. Terrell said. "I love my flag."

mitchell shettles: a young man eager to serve america

As your Representative, it is an honor to nominate outstanding young people in the First District to attend one of America's prestigious Service Academies. Additionally, those who wish to serve as an officer in the U.S. Armed forces can also be appointed to a Service Academy Prep School. Mitchell Shettles, a New Albany High School graduate, is attending the U.S. Naval Academy Prep School to prepare for the United States Coast Guard Academy. Mitchell plans to earn a bachelor's in Government and a master's in Homeland Security. He will also play basketball for the prep school and, when appointed, play for the USCGA. To learn more about Service Academy appointments, please visit TrentKelly.house.gov.

welcome to summer intern david simmons

I am pleased to welcome David Simmons, who is participating in our summer internship program. David is a 2019 Tupelo Christian Preparatory School graduate. He is a rising junior at the University of Mississippi, where he is pursuing a bachelor's in Public Policy Leadership and a minor in Japanese and Legal Studies. Upon graduation from Ole Miss, David plans to attend law school. "I always wanted to go into politics," David said. "The internship is a step in the right direction to help me achieve my academic and career goals."

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Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress