[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 126 (Thursday, October 7, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1820]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a great American 
patriot and tireless worker on behalf of our military, veterans and 
dependents.
  Major General Richard D. Murray, USAF (Ret), is retiring as the 
President of the National Association for Uniformed Services (NAUS), an 
association that he has led for the last six years. In and out of 
uniform, General Murray has displayed longstanding dedication to our 
great country in a career that spans over 50 years. For over a half 
century, General Murray has championed countless causes on behalf of 
the people who comprise the military community.
  I first met General Murray just after his arrival at NAUS in 1998 
where he immediately reiterated NAUS' emphasis on improving the 
military health system. He aggressively sought changes in law that 
would ensure that active duty and military retirees receive the high-
quality healthcare that they earned. Despite stiff opposition from the 
Department of Defense, General Murray pressed hard for the government 
to honor the lifetime medical care promise and for the Department of 
Defense to implement a realistic pharmacy benefit for its Medicare-
eligible beneficiaries, initiatives that I strongly supported and led 
as a member of the House Armed Services Committee and Veterans Affairs 
Committee. General Murray also initiated NAUS' unique programs such as 
the ``NAUS Misfortune 500'' program to assist lower income retirees 
with the high cost of their prescription drugs.
  I have especially enjoyed his leadership and support for legislation 
I authored called ``TRICARE For Life'' and the Senior Pharmacy Program. 
His support was important to our effort and our veterans owe him a debt 
of gratitude.
  General Murray was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and graduated from 
Baylor University, Waco, Texas in 1954. He received his commission 
through the University's Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps in 
March 1954.
  General Murray served 31 years in the United States Air Force. During 
his distinguished career in the Air Force, he served in various 
assignments in the United States and overseas in positions of 
increasing responsibility. His last assignment was as Commander, Army 
and Air Force Exchange Service from 1981 to 1985. After retiring he 
continued to serve as the President of the American Logistics 
Association.
  His military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service 
Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, 
Joint Service Commendation
  Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, 
Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal First Class and Republic 
of Vietnam Air Service Medal Honor Class.
  I wish General Murray and his wife my very best as they devote time 
to their children and grandchildren.
  In closing, General Murray is a man worthy of Congressional 
distinction in his private life and in the uniform that he has worn so 
honorably. I salute him. Job well done, my friend.

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