[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 197 (Tuesday, December 20, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2325]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF COLONEL JOSEPH P. RICHARDS, USMC

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 20, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel 
Joseph P. Richards, Commander, Marine Aviation Training Support Group 
21, upon his retirement after more than 31 years of faithful and 
dedicated service to the United States Marine Corps.
   Colonel Richards' long and distinguished career has been marked by 
his selfless dedication to duty and his unwavering love of country. He 
enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1980 and trained as an aircraft 
mechanic. Colonel Richards attended Westfield State College as a 
Criminal Justice major, graduating in 1985 before embarking on his 
career as a commissioned officer and Naval Aviator.
   During his remarkable career, Colonel Richards served in a number of 
flying squadrons, deploying overseas with the 13th, 15th, 31st, and 
24th Marine Expeditionary Units. On one such deployment, he 
participated in Operations Allied Force and Noble Anvil, supporting the 
air campaign over Yugoslavia in 1999. In addition to his operational 
experience, he has also served in a number of training billets, 
instructing new pilots and teaching officers at senior level schools. 
His record of accomplishment is well-documented and earned him command 
opportunities at every level from detachment to group.
   Colonel Richards has served as Commander of Marine Aviation Training 
Support Group at Naval Air Station Pensacola since May 2009. His 
leadership and professionalism during his tenure have been nothing 
short of superb.
   Colonel Richards' professional achievements have been rewarded on 
numerous occasions during his career. His personal decorations include 
the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, 
two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two Navy and Marine 
Corps Achievement Medals, and various campaign and service medals.
   Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the career and 
accomplishments of Colonel Joseph P. Richards. His service to country 
and Corps has been exceptional. My wife Vicki and I wish him, his wife 
Susan, and three children--Matthew, Michael, and Meghan--all the best.

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