WHEREAS, Paul Edward Akers, the highly respected editorial page editor of Fredericksburg's Free Lance-Star, died on September 20, 2013; and

WHEREAS, a native of West Virginia, Paul Akers attended Marshall University and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and continued his military service as a member of the United States Army Reserve from 1975 until 1997; and

WHEREAS, a gifted writer, Paul Akers worked as a reporter and editor for several papers, including the 80th Infantry Division newspaper, and also served as a senior writer for The Heritage Foundation before joining Fredericksburg's Free Lance-Star in 1998; and

WHEREAS, as the editorial page editor, Paul Akers offered readers insightful commentary about the leading issues of the day while also ensuring that other viewpoints were well represented; and

WHEREAS, a true gentleman, Paul Akers was known for his respect toward those with whom he disagreed, his sense of humor, and his common-sense approach; and

WHEREAS, Paul Akers was a member of St. Luke's Anglican Church in Fredericksburg and was a strong supporter of the YMCA Indian Princesses program; and

WHEREAS, dedicated to journalistic excellence and the well-being of his fellow residents, Paul Akers made many contributions to his profession and the Fredericksburg community; and

WHEREAS, Paul Akers will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Karen; children, Emily and Katherine, and their families; stepchildren, Jenni and Joshua, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of a dedicated journalist and admired member of the Fredericksburg community, Paul Edward Akers; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Paul Edward Akers as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.