[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 96 (Tuesday, June 13, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8205-S8206]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         COL. MICHAEL V. HARPER

  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, I rise to recognize the career and 
accomplishments of Col. Michael V. Harper, who is retiring after 26 
years of distinguished service to the Army and the Nation.
  Colonel Harper began his career as a Distinguished Military Graduate 
when [[Page S8206]] he graduated from the Virginia Military Institute 
in 1969 and was commissioned a second lieutenant of infantry. In the 
months following his graduation from Infantry Officers Basic School, 
Lieutenant Harper earned two of the Army's most cherished qualification 
badges, airborne wings and a Ranger tab. After a tour with America's 
famed Honor Guard, the 82d Airborne Division, Colonel Harper was 
ordered to the Republic of Vietnam where he was assigned to the 1st 
Battalion (Airmobile), 327th Infantry, setting in motion a career that 
would bring him many commands and responsibilities.
  Among his many assignments over the next two decades, the colonel 
served as: commander, A Company, 18th Infantry; Executive Officer, 1st 
Battalion (Mechanized) 36th Infantry at Friedberg, Federal Republic of 
Germany; and, he commanded the 2d Battalion (Mechanized), 16th Infantry 
at Fort Riley, KS. In addition to his troop leading time, Colonel 
Harper attended the Command and General Staff College and the Naval War 
College; served as a staff officer and Chief of the War Plans Division; 
and finally, as Director of the Chief of Staff of the Army's personal 
staff group. In his capacity as General Sullivan's staff director, 
Colonel Harper helped the Chief of Staff transform the Army from a Cold 
War, forward deployed force into a power projection force ready to 
defend the Nation anywhere. Colonel Harper's keen insight, sound 
judgment, and able intellect have made a lasting contribution to the 
future of the Army and the continued security of the Nation.
  Mr. President, Colonel Harper has been a model soldier throughout his 
career. He embodies the traits that the military expects of those who 
choose to serve: integrity; loyalty, selfless service: and, concern for 
soldiers. He is a man who has served the Nation well and he has our 
appreciation for his dedication and sacrifices over the past 26 years, 
I join his friends and colleagues in wishing him good health and great 
success in the years to come.


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