On August 15, 2008, U.S. Army First Lieutenant Donald "Donnie" Carwile was killed on a combat mission in Afghanistan while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom. In September 2016, the House passed H.R. 5309. I was honored to introduce this bill which named the U.S. Post Office in Oxford in his memory. With the support of Senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker, the Senate also passed the bill which the President signed into law.

Jennifer Estock, 1LT Carwile's widow, recently shared her thoughts with us about her husband's service and sacrifice. 

I am so proud of my husband’s service. He was a dedicated leader and made it his goal every day to keep the guys in his platoon safe. He went through some tough experiences while deployed and still persevered and pushed to be the best leader and soldier until his death. His strength has inspired not only me, but also our daughters, Reese and Avery.

We started dating in 1995, and were married on March 4^th, 2000. We were married until he died on August 15^th, 2008.

He enjoyed serving in the military. His mother and father both served in the military. In fact, he was born in Norfolk, VA, while his father was stationed there in the Army. He first joined the Army as an enlisted soldier after graduating high school. He always wanted the MOS of Infantryman and was so excited to be a part of an Infantry division. He lived and breathed being in the Infantry. He was always so proud to wear the blue cord! After finishing his degree at Ole Miss, he rejoined the Army to complete Officer Candidate School. He, fortunately, was assigned to the Infantry as an officer as well. He loved our country and serving was important to him. He was ready to deploy, without hesitation, when we were first stationed to Fort Campbell, KY.

My family and I were so happy about the Oxford Post Office being named after Donnie. He would get a kick out of it! It means the world to us that people still remember him. He has a large picture hanging in the lobby. For years to come, my daughters, and eventually their children will see his name on the wall and will be so proud of him.

Forest Conservation Easement Program (FCEP) of 2023

This week, I introduced the Forest Conservation Easement Program (FCEP) in the House. The FCEP will fill a gap and help keep private forestland intact and managed for timber, allowing the lands to continue providing numerous benefits to rural communities. The forest timber industry employs a large amount of Mississippi's manufacturing workforce. The FCEP will aid in producing more good-paying jobs, supplying wood and fiber for forest products, and protecting wildlife. 

Kelly Praised for Forestry Program

Archie Miller is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science at the University of Mississippi. Born and raised in West Point, Mississippi, Archie is the son of Mary Brett Miller and Dr. Edmund A. Miller. When asked why he chose to intern in Congressman Trent Kelly’s office, he responded, "I had the opportunity to be a part of Congressman Trent Kelly's class at the University of Mississippi. Congressman Kelly travels back and forth to Washington, D.C., and Memphis while driving home to Saltillo, Mississippi, to spend time with family. The fact that he takes the time to instruct students at the University of Mississippi demonstrates his commitment to serving Mississippi. His entire staff exemplifies each of these characteristics. As a member of Mississippi's 1st Congressional District, I am pleased to state that the people of my district are represented by a driven and esteemed group of individuals. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with an extraordinary Congressional staff.”