Congressional Veteran Commendation for Chief Warrant Officer Herbert Rich

Floor Speech

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Mr. FALLON. Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Warrant Officer 3 Herbert James ``Jim'' Rich of Sulphur Springs, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. CW3 Rich honorably served in the United States Army during the Gulf War.

From a young age, CW3 Rich sought to serve and represent our great nation on the global stage. He began his Army career as a truck driver and finance clerk before successfully completing flight training as a helicopter pilot. Initially, he served as a utility helicopter pilot and operations officer during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm to help stop Iraqi aggression against Kuwait.

CW3 Rich later served as a commander of a helicopter company for the National Training Center before becoming a medical evacuation pilot in Alaska. In 1994, he also participated in Joint Indo-Pacific military exercises in Thailand. Without a doubt, his actions helped save many lives. For his meritorious service, CW3 Rich was awarded the Air Medal, Senior Aviation Badge, and several other awards.

Atter returning to civilian life, CW3 Rich has continued to make an impact in our community and dedicated himself to public service. He currently volunteers as a fireman and assistant chief in his community. CW3 is also a member of the East Texas Marine Corps League Detachment 1357, in which he works to uplift and support fellow veterans while raising awareness for veterans' issues. I commend CW3 Rich for his selfless service and devotion to assisting those in need.

I am honored to represent CW3 Rich in Texas' 4th Congressional district. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and to the people of North Texas.

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