Washington – U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln today met with Jacob Costello, 17 of Wesley, winner of the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon young people by the U.S. Congress. Jacob was in Washington with other award winners from across the United States to learn more about the federal government and explore the nation’s capital.
To achieve this honor, recipients must complete 400 hours of community service, and 200 hours of both personal development and physical fitness activities for at least two years.
(Above) U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln and winner of the Congressional Award Gold Medal Jacob Costello
Lincoln today submitted the following statement in the Congressional Record in honor of Costello:
U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln
Congressional Record Statement
June 24, 2010
TO RECOGNIZE ARKANSAN JACOB COSTELLO, WINNER OF THE CONGRESSIONAL AWARD GOLD MEDAL
M. President, today I recognize Arkansan Jacob Costello of Wesley, winner of the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon young people by the U.S. Congress. It is the first and only award for youth legislated by the U. S. Congress. I was proud to meet with Jacob in Washington this week and learn more about his experiences achieving this great honor.
Earning The Congressional Award Gold Medal requires a significant commitment. Participants must spend two years or more completing at least 400 hours of community service, 200 hours of personal development and physical fitness activities, and a four-night “Expedition or Exploration.”
Upon completion of these requirements, young leaders like Jacob from across the United States gather in Washington to honor their commitment to community service and personal improvement. They also have the opportunity to learn more about the federal government and visit Washington’s museums and memorials.
M. President, Jacob represents the best of our Arkansas values of hard work and determination. His dedication to volunteerism and public service is to be admired by all Arkansans, and I commend him for this tremendous honor.
I now yield my time.
