[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 159 (Friday, September 29, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E917]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING COLONEL JOHN THOMAS WELLS, USA, RETIRED, WITH A 
                   CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2023

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with great pride to recognize 
retired Colonel John Thomas Wells, United States Army, of Woodway, 
Texas, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.
  Colonel Wells began his distinguished journey as a Military Graduate 
from Eastern Kentucky University in 1964. His early years saw him 
patrolling the East German and Czechoslovakian borders and later 
serving valiantly in the 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War. 
Upon returning stateside, his leadership capabilities led him from 
commanding roles at Fort Knox to significant contributions at the Army 
Combat Arms Training Board at Fort Benning. Notably, he was 
instrumental in developing the Army Training and Evaluation Program, a 
legacy that benefits both active and reserve units today.
  His commitment took him to the heart of military planning, serving on 
the Army General Staff at the Pentagon before command roles in Korea. 
His final active-duty assignment was Chief, Manpower Division, Resource 
Management Directorate, U.S. Forces Command at Fort McPherson, Georgia, 
after which he retired in 1989.
  Colonel Wells's awards are a testament to his valor, including the 
Silver Star, Bronze Star with ``V,'' Purple Heart, and numerous 
international honors.
  His service didn't end in the military. He pursued the Holy Orders, 
was ordained in 1998, and contributed deeply to parishes in Texas. 
Throughout retirement, he lent his leadership to various churches, 
simultaneously earning accolades for his community service in Woodway, 
Texas. Notably, his two-decade dedication as a volunteer chaplain with 
the Waco Police Department speaks volumes of his commitment to service 
beyond uniform.
  Educationally, besides his military training, Wells pursued 
theological studies at the esteemed University of Oxford and holds 
advanced degrees from Shippensburg University and the Episcopal 
Theological Seminary of the Southwest.
  Together with his devoted wife, Su, they have enriched the Woodway 
community, with Colonel Wells chairing the city's Planning and Zoning 
Commission. Their legacy continues through their four children and 
three grandchildren.
  In recognition of a lifetime dedicated to service, both in uniform 
and as a steadfast community pillar, I am honored to present the 2023 
Congressional Veterans Commendation to retired Colonel John Thomas 
Wells, United States Army. His story is a testament to duty, courage, 
and an unwavering commitment to country and community.

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