[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 159 (Friday, September 29, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E912-E913]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING LIEUTENANT COLONEL VINCENT J. TOBOLA, JR. USAF, RETIRED, 
               WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2023

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor retired 
Lieutenant Colonel Vincent J. Tobola, Jr., United States Air Force, of 
Waco, Texas with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.
  A proud graduate of Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 
Industrial Engineering, Lieutenant Colonel Tobola embarked on a 
distinguished 24-year career in the United States Air Force, during 
which he showcased exceptional leadership and commitment. His postings 
spanned from Kincheloe Air Force Base in Michigan, Ramstein Air Force 
Base in Germany, to Griffis Air Force Base in New York, among others. 
In roles such as Chief of the Contracts Support Division, Director of 
Base Engineering, and Civil Engineer Squadron Commander, he managed 
assets worth billions and supervised contracts in the hundreds of 
millions. His exceptional service earned him numerous accolades, 
including five Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Achievement 
Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, and various others marking 
his outstanding dedication to duty.
  After retiring from the Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Tobola 
continued his devotion to public service with the City of Waco, TX. 
Contributing significantly as the Waco Facilities Program Administrator 
and subsequently as the Facilities Manager. His leadership played a 
pivotal role in advancing major upgrades across various city 
facilities.
  His spirit of service didn't end there. Following his retirement from 
the City of Waco in 2018, he remained deeply involved in the Heart of 
Texas Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Not only did he 
serve as the chapter's president for two years, but he is also the 
active Treasurer both at the chapter and state levels. Beyond his 
administrative

[[Page E913]]

roles, Lieutenant Colonel Tobola showcases his commitment by organizing 
MOAA's monthly membership meetings, special events, and the pivotal 
annual fundraiser. This fundraiser, under his guidance, has provided 
over $140,000 in educational scholarships and supported Reserve 
Officer's Training Corps students in both high schools and universities 
throughout Waco.
  For his enduring dedication to his nation, both in military service 
and beyond, and his embodiment of the MOAA's motto of ``Never Stop 
Serving,'' it is with great admiration and respect that I present the 
2023 Congressional Veteran Commendation to retired United States Air 
Force Lieutenant Colonel Vincent J. Tobola, Jr.

                          ____________________