[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 159 (Friday, November 16, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RICHARD M. ROMLEY, OUTSTANDING DISABLED VETERAN OF THE YEAR

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                             HON. BOB STUMP

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 16, 2001

  Mr. STUMP. Mr. Speaker, November 11 is the day the nation has set 
aside to honor and remember its war veterans. On this day, we pay 
tribute to all our defenders of freedom. The Disabled American Veterans 
(DAV) recently named one of these distinguished veterans, Richard M. 
Romley, the nation's Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year. In 
conjunction with this recognition, the Lois Pope Foundation awarded Mr. 
Romley its prestigious LIFE's Presidential Unsung Hero Award. The 
awards recognize a disabled veteran's individual achievement.
  Like many of his generation, he and his best friend enlisted in the 
Marine Corps. An accomplished and decorated soldier, Rick Romley's 
promising military career was cut short by a land mine that took both 
his legs. Following his recovery and rehabilitation, Rick enrolled at 
Arizona State University, graduating with honors and a degree in 
business management. For five years he owned and operated his own 
business. Wanting a career change, he sold his business and enrolled 
again at Arizona State University to obtain his Juris Doctorate. With 
his law degree in hand, he again pursued a career in public service and 
is now serving his fourth term as Maricopa County Attorney, the fourth 
largest county in the nation.
  Never letting his disability stand in his way, Rick Romley is a 
nationally recognized leader in criminal and juvenile justice and drug 
trafficking. He has testified before Congress on violent crime, 
addressed national organizations, and was under consideration for 
appointment as the nation's Drug Czar. In addition, he has received a 
number of awards in recognition of his public service including the 
National Leadership Award presented by the Community Anti-Drug 
Coalition of America.
  As the nation remembers its veterans, Vietnam veteran Rick Romley's 
service to Arizona and the country are worthy of recognition. He has an 
unfailing dedication to improving the quality of life within his 
community. While the journey has not come easily, Rick has proven that 
perseverance and hard work are the measures of success. While many 
choose to serve their nation, all too few take on the uniform of our 
armed services and make the special sacrifices only they and their 
families can truly appreciate. Rich joins the continuous, unbroken line 
of patriots that have served this nation from its inception to the 
present. On this Veterans Day, I join with the nation in saluting his 
accomplishment and leadership.




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