The bill now goes to President Joe Biden for his signature.
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05), Dean of the House, announced the passage of the legislation Thursday.
Born in Williamsburg, Judge Siler dedicated his life to serving Eastern Kentucky, establishing a reputation as an acclaimed jurist and a trusted source for sound legal advice. Judge Siler has served on the federal bench for nearly 50 years, nominated by two U.S. Presidents, Gerald Ford, and George H.W. Bush, to the United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky and, subsequently, the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
In 2016, Leadership Tri-County recognized Judge Siler as their Leader of the Year for his contributions to Kentucky.
“Serving on the federal judiciary for nearly five decades, Judge Siler has had massive impact on my home state of Kentucky, both on and off the bench. Today, alongside Congressman Rogers, it is my privilege to designate the U.S. Courthouse Annex in London, Kentucky in honor of this accomplished Kentuckian,” McConnell said Thursday.
“As one of my home state’s top legal minds and a man synonymous with Whitley County, there is no person more befitting of this honor. I join the chorus of voices back home in thanking Judge Siler for his lifetime of service to our country and the Commonwealth.”
Rogers echoed similar sentiments.
“Judge Siler’s legacy as a jurist, who earned appointments from two U.S. Presidents, gives us a great sense of pride in southeastern Kentucky. It is only fitting for the federal courthouse in London, Kentucky, where he dedicated many years of service and mentored aspiring legal minds, to bear his name,” said Rogers.
“This designation for Judge Siler is a small token of appreciation on behalf of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to applaud his valiant service. It is an honor to join Senator Mitch McConnell to advance this worthy recognition from both chambers of this Congress.”
State Senator Brandon Storm noted that he has known Judge Siler most of his adult life, and that Siler was both a friend and mentor long before he became an attorney.
“His support, including letters of recommendation for law school, played a key role in shaping my legal career. Judge Siler isn’t just one of the most outstanding legal scholars of our time but also a pillar of Southeastern Kentucky—always gracious, whether at the bench or as a regular at Weaver’s Hotdogs in London. His generosity, kindness and tireless dedication to upholding the founding principles of our Constitution define his legacy of service. He is an inspiration to the Sixth Circuit and to our nation,” Storms said.
“Having spent countless hours working in the federal courthouse here in London, it’s especially meaningful that the annex will be named in Judge Siler’s honor. I’m deeply grateful to Senator McConnell for his leadership in bringing this legislation forward and to Congressman Rogers for his partnership in securing this well-deserved recognition.”
Laurel County Judge-Executive David Westerfield said that Laurel County is very fortunate to have a federal court house in its area, and he appreciated McConnell and Rogers for recognizing Siler’s contribution to our community and its court system.
“Judge Siler has been a good personal friend of mine for many years and this recognition is well deserved. I want to congratulate Judge Siler for this accomplishment,” Westerfield said.
Whitley County Judge-Executive Pat White Jr. said that he is thankful to McConnell and Rogers for recognizing such an outstanding member of the Whitley County community.
“Judge Eugene Siler, Jr. has had a distinguished and respected career on the Sixth Circuit where his decisions have helped shape the law of the entire nation. And that’s not to mention the great number of East Kentucky law students he has encouraged through clerkships and other support, including myself. I cannot think of anyone else more deserving of this honor,” White said.
Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Harrison and Corbin Mayor Suzie Razmus also spoke highly of Siler.
“I can’t think of a more fitting tribute to be done by two of the most iconic figures in Kentucky, Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers, for one of the most impressive figures to me Judge Siler. Judge is a friend of mine and my family and is beloved by everyone in Williamsburg,” Harrison said.
“Judge Siler has been a blessing to so many in our community. He embodies the perfect example of what it means to live your life in service to others. Judge Siler has been a strong, compassionate, and dedicated leader in Eastern Kentucky throughout the years. I appreciate Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers for honoring Judge Siler in this way,” Razmus added.
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