[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 139 (Monday, September 9, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S5877]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO MASTER SERGEANT JERRY WHEAT

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, there is no doubt that our 
veterans inspire us to see the very best of America. They remind us of 
the sacrifices made for our country to be the best in the world. And 
their patriotism is the reason why the American dream continues to 
exist for future generations. MSgt Jerry Wheat of Wetumpka is one such 
example of patriotism.
  Jerry joined the Air Force right after graduating high school in 
1957, doing more than 40 combat missions during the Vietnam war. He 
flew more than 5,000 hours total during his three tours of service. 
Jerry was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his flying 
missions over enemy territory.
  After retiring out of Maxwell Air Force Base, Jerry and his wife 
decided to make the River Region their permanent home. But Jerry 
couldn't stay away from serving our military. He joined the Civil Air 
Patrol, where he worked for another 20 years at Maxwell, all while 
going back to college and becoming the first in his family to obtain a 
college degree.
  Despite facing multiple health challenges from exposure to Agent 
Orange, he doesn't hesitate to say he would do it all over again. His 
influence is evident in the impact it has had on his family, including 
his granddaughter, who nominated him for this recognition. Jerry's 
story reminds us of the high price paid for us to have the opportunity 
to achieve more than those who came before us. It is my honor to 
recognize him as the September Veteran of the Month.

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