[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 162 (Tuesday, October 3, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4914-S4915]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO SPECIALIST RACHEL RONEY-RIVERA

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, although she is just 25 years 
old, Specialist Rachel Roney-Rivera's life has been all about breaking 
barriers. A native of Beauregard, Rachel enlisted in the U.S. Army on 
her 18th birthday, using her interests to become a paralegal for the 
National Guard.
  After finishing her military service as an E-4 specialist, Rachel 
decided to use her experience to pursue a career in law enforcement. 
She graduated top of her class at the police academy before

[[Page S4915]]

joining the Chambers County Sheriff's Office. Rachel has proven to be a 
vital part of the force, including becoming the first woman to be 
selected for the SWAT team. She now serves as a sex crimes 
investigator, helping families during some of the most difficult times 
in their lives. Chambers County Sheriff Jeff Nelson says that Rachel, 
``puts 110% into every case to bring resolution and justice.''
  Rachel's presence in the community extends far past her investigative 
work. She also serves as a self-defense instructor, where she helps 
empower women in East Alabama with confidence and defense training 
techniques. But that is not all--Rachel is also preparing to graduate 
with her bachelor's degree in psychology from Columbia Southern next 
spring. She is studying for the LSAT, hoping to become an attorney one 
day. In addition to being a full-time deputy and student, Rachel is 
also a proud full-time mom to a 4-year-old daughter.
  Her story inspires Alabamians young and old about what can be 
accomplished with hard work and determination. I am honored to 
recognize Rachel as the October Veteran of the Month.

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