Carl D. Perkins was born, reared, and educated in Knott County and never called another place on Earth his home. He served as chairman of the House Committee on Education and Labor for 17 years. His leadership and influence shaped virtually every piece of social legislation enacted by Congress during his years there. He worked tirelessly for the landmark Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, the Vocation Education Act, the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, school lunch and nutrition programs for children and the elderly, decent housing for all, special programs for senior citizens, flood control, conservation of human and natural resources, and community development. His dream of a better life for the underprivileged of his native Eastern Kentucky and the entire nation lives on through those who loved him and those inspired by his dedication and boundless energy.