A house RESOLUTION

TO CONGRATULATE ERNESTINE REED ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT, TO EXTEND DEEP APPRECIATION FOR HER MANY YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE, AND TO OFFER BEST WISHES FOR A SATISFYING AND REWARDING RETIREMENT.

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives has learned that Ernestine Reed, who has been a committed, stalwart employee supporting the South Carolina Air National Guard and the United States Air Force for thirty years, will retire from her post at the end of March 2024; and

Whereas, a native of Richland County, Ernestine Reed hails from Hopkins, where she spent her formative years. She initially attended Booker T. Washington High School before transitioning to A.C. Flora High School, post-desegregation; and

Whereas, family holds immense importance in her life. She grew up alongside four brothers and four sisters and later raised a son and daughter, as well as three grandchildren; and

Whereas, affectionately known as "Ms. Ernestine," she embarked on her professional journey in 1994 at the then McEntire Air National Guard Base. There, she served as one of two contractors entrusted with maintaining base facilities. Over the next thirty years, she devoted herself to supporting the South Carolina Air National Guard and the United States Air Force; and

Whereas, although she is officially retiring from her full-time position, Ms. Ernestine remains committed to the mission and will continue to provide support to the airmen of the South Carolina Air National Guard during drill weekends; and

Whereas, for more than three decades, Ms. Ernestine has been a role model for all airmen, and her dedication to the 169 Civil Engineer Squadron and the entire South Carolina Air National Guard has set the standard. She has taken care of all the facilities, cultivated relationships with airmen at every level, and earned the respect and affection of them all. They will miss her greatly in her full-time capacity when she retires but are pleased that they will still be able to enjoy her presence, wisdom, and friendship as she carries on with her part-time work; and

Whereas, the House of Representatives is grateful for the legacy of consistent excellence and dedication Ernestine Reed has bestowed on the people of South Carolina and our great country. Taking much pleasure in wishing her all the best as she enters a well-earned retirement, the members trust she will find much enjoyment in the more leisurely pace of the days ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Ernestine Reed on the occasion of her retirement, extend deep appreciation for her many years of outstanding service, and offer best wishes for a satisfying and rewarding retirement.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Ernestine Reed.

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