Rep. Derek Kilmer took to the House floor Thursday to say a few words about a certain someone who schooled him — and quite possibly most of Port Angeles, Wash. — in the finer points of hard work and perseverance.  

“I think he may have taught my entire hometown,” the Washington Democrat said of his father’s staggering reach following 51 years devoted to feeding young minds.  

The elder Kilmer was even able to bask in the well-earned praise, as he was up in the gallery during the congratulatory address.  

Derek Kilmer Gets a Jump on Father’s Day

According to the congressman’s office, J.C. Kilmer began his career in 1964 at what was then Roosevelt Junior High School. The newly retired educator (along with mom, who is also in town) on Wednesday accompanied his second-term lawmaker son to the White House for the congressional picnic.  

Staff said Rep. Kilmer led everyone on a tour of the Capitol, and noted a visit to the Library of Congress had also been crossed off the family’s bucket list.  

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