WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI) and Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA) introduced companion resolutions to honor public servants.  They were joined in the Senate by Senators George Voinovich (R-OH), Joseph Lieberman (ID-CT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Carl Levin (D-MI), and Tom Carper (D-DE), and in the House by Representatives Edolphus Towns (D-NY), Danny Davis (D-IL), Elijah Cummings (D-MD), James Moran (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and Donna Edwards (D-MD).

The resolutions honor the contributions of federal, State, and local government employees nationwide during Public Service Recognition Week, set for May 4th through 10th this year.  This is the 25th anniversary of Public Service Recognition Week, which takes place the first full week of May. 

During this week, there are events, awards, and other activities held throughout the country to recognize public servants and provide opportunities for the public to gain a deeper understanding of the work of government employees.  This year, the Partnership for Public Service and the Public Employees Roundtable will host a public exhibition on the National Mall in Washington, DC, from May 7th through 10th.

Senator Akaka said: “Public Service Recognition Week honors the good work of government employees who dedicate their lives to serving others.  They teach our children, protect our communities, care for our Veterans, deliver our mail, preserve our natural resources, and perform many other duties essential to our country.  It is my hope that through these events and exhibitions, people of all generations will gain a deeper appreciation of the contributions of government employees.”

Congressman Lynch said: “While Public Service Week lasts only seven days, Senator Akaka and I believe that the contributions and sacrifices of public servants ought to be recognized and appreciated throughout the entire year. Hopefully, by honoring public servants and acknowledging the value of their service, we may show younger generations the importance of public service and inspire them to consider a career in Federal, State, or local government.”

Senator Akaka is the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.  Congressman Lynch is the Chairman of the House Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, the Postal Service, and the District of Columbia of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee.  The Senate resolution was formally introduced by Sen. Akaka last Thursday (3/26) and the House resolution by Rep. Lynch yesterday (3/30). 

For more information on Public Service Recognition Week, please visit the Partnership for Public Service online at: http://www.ourpublicservice.org/OPS/programs/psrw/ 

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