[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 41 (Wednesday, April 9, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E604]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT DIX RETIRES FROM AIR FORCE AFTER 24 YEARS; A 
     DISTINGUISHED CAREER IN ACTIVE DUTY, RECRUITING, AND RESERVES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES T. WALSH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 9, 1997

  Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Chief M. Sgt. 
Ronald W. Dix upon his retirement and to ask my colleagues to join me 
in thanking Chief Dix for his 24 years of service and for his symbolic 
representation of all that is good about our Armed Forces, and 
particularly those of the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard.
  Chief Dix was on active duty with the Air Force from September 5, 
1961 to September 4, 1965, serving as protocol NCO at Wheelus AFB, 
Tripoli, Libya and at Lindsay Air Station, Weisbaden, Germany. During 
this time, Chief Dix was also a member of the 37th Air Defense Missile 
Squadron at Kinchloe AFB, Sault St. Marie, MI.
  In January 1978, he joined the Air National Guard, accepting an 
assignment in the Base Preparedness Office. In 1981, he was reassigned 
to active duty as a recruiter. Chief Dix was instrumental in attracting 
and inspiring young men and women to join the Air Guard in serving to 
their country. In 1984, he was assigned as training NCO in the Civil 
Engineer Squadron of the 174th Fighter Wing and participated in many 
overseas deployments.
  During his final time with the New York Air National Guard, Chief Dix 
served as the facilities manager for the entire Hancock Field Air 
National Guard Base. Some of his decorations for meritorious service 
include: the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Air Force Achievement 
Medal with four devices, the Air Reserves Meritorious Service Medal 
with five devices, the National Defense Service, the Armed Forces 
Expeditionary Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Air 
Force Overseas Long and Short Tour Ribbon, the Air Force Longevity 
Service Award, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the New York 
State Commendation Medal, and the New York Conspicuous Service Cross.
  Upon completion of such exemplary service to our Nation, I commend 
Chief Dix and wish him well in retirement.

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