[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 31, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S11284]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

     TRIBUTE TO SERGEANT MAJOR BENCESLADO RAEL UPON HIS RETIREMENT

 Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
fellow New Mexican who is retiring after 32 years of dedicated service 
with the United States Air Force and the New Mexico Army National 
Guard. Sergeant Major Benceslado ``Ben'' Rael has made duty, honor and 
service the hallmarks of his career and is a shining example of a true 
American patriot.
  Ben was born in Truchas, NM in 1941 and graduated from St. Michael's 
High School in 1960; he also received his A.A. from Wilber Wright 
College in 1973. Upon joining the Air Force, he immediately made an 
impact as a recruiting and retention specialist where he helped 
countless young people find a confidence and self-esteem building 
career in the United States Armed Forces.
  Ben's skills in recruiting did not go unnoticed. Upon joining the New 
Mexico Army National Guard, Ben was assigned the position of Vice 
Chairman of the Guard's National Recruiting and Retention advisory 
Council. Again, Ben showed himself to be a tremendous asset in keeping 
the National Guard vibrant in New Mexico.
  Ben has made all of New Mexico proud, and in tribute, Governor 
Johnson has proclaimed October 31, 2001 as ``Sergeant Major Benceslado 
Rael Day.'' I want to take this opportunity to join with the Governor, 
and indeed with all New Mexicans, in saluting Ben on a job well done 
and in wishing him many years of happiness in his retirement.

                          ____________________