[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 138 (Monday, August 20, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5717-S5718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RICKY RALEY

  Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I wish to recognize Purple Heart recipient 
Mr. Ricky Raley for his valiant service in the Indiana National Guard 
Alpha Company, Task Force 1-151. Also known as the Avengers, Task Force 
1-151 covered more than 250,000 miles in convoy escorts and were 
continuously involved in combat operations during Operation Iraqi 
Freedom.
  Ricky served in Iraq from 2007 to 2008 and was stationed near Tikrit 
at COB Speicher. He served as a lead gun truckdriver for various 
patrols and security missions. In 2008, Ricky's truck activated an 
improvised explosive device, leaving Ricky with sustained traumatic 
brain injuries.
  On April 17, 2009, Ricky was involved in a car accident causing 
paralysis from the waist down. Since then, Ricky has joined the Boot 
Campaign, a nonprofit organization providing life-improving programs 
for veterans and military families. He also works with the Paralyzed 
Veterans of America, serving on the board of directors for the 
Kentucky-Indiana Chapter.
  To remain active, Ricky has become a devoted handcyclist, training up 
to 6 days a week. Currently, Ricky is

[[Page S5718]]

handbiking from New York to Florida, covering 1,500 miles in 14 days to 
raise awareness for veterans across the Nation.
  As a marine, it is with overwhelming pride that I recognize Ricky for 
his service to this country. As his journey progresses, I wish him the 
best of luck, and I look forward to his further contributions to our 
veterans and the great Hoosier State.

                          ____________________