[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 184 (Friday, December 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2167]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     ANNOUNCING RECIPIENTS OF THE INAUGURAL CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN 
   COMMENDATION FOR THE THIRD DISTRICT OF TEXAS--ELIZABETH McCORMICK

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. SAM JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 2, 2011

  Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to announce 
before my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives the 
names of eleven distinguished military veterans and community servants 
who call the Third District of Texas home. For their selfless service 
and dedication to their neighbors and nation, the following individuals 
have been selected as recipients of the inaugural Congressional Veteran 
Commendation:
  Chief Warrant Officer Elizabeth McCormick served our country in the 
U.S. Army from 1994 to 2001. After Basic Training at Fort Jackson, 
South Carolina, McCormick decided to forego Officer Candidate School, 
instead heading to the Warrant Officer Flight Training Program to 
increase her chances of fulfilling her dream--serving as a Blackhawk 
helicopter pilot.
  She graduated first in her class and was soon assigned to Fort Drum, 
New York flying Command & Control and VIP Missions. Upon promotion to 
Chief Warrant Officer 2, McCormick was transferred to Katterbach Army 
Airfield in Germany where she served as Rear Detachment C Company 
Commander during peacekeeping operations in Kosovo.
  For her excellent service, McCormick was awarded the Army 
Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service 
Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Army 
Aviator Badge.
  Though an injury incurred in Germany forced McCormick into medical 
retirement, she maintained her spirits and searched for new goals. She 
moved to Dallas, Texas where she built a business as a Longaberger 
Consultant. McCormick is now active in the local community, 
participating in several Chambers of Commerce and serving as President 
of the Firewheel Chapter of Women of Visionary Influence. Each year she 
also participates in an Armed Forces Day Barbeque where she collects 
boxes of dry foods and goods for overseas troops.
  It is my pleasure to name Elizabeth McCormick a recipient of the 
inaugural Congressional Veteran Commendation for the Third District of 
Texas.

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