[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 10 (Wednesday, January 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E39]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                    RECOGNIZING JOSEPH RAY WILLIAMS

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. BETH VAN DUYNE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 14, 2026

  Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful 
Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. 
The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to 
Aviation Structural Mechanic First Class Joseph Ray Williams, United 
States Navy, of Roanoke, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed 
Forces of the United States of America and for his continued service to 
his community.
  Petty Officer First Class Williams served honorably in the United 
States Navy from 1996 to 2016, completing seven deployments and 
circumnavigating the globe three times in defense of the Nation. As a 
member of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15, he played a 
vital role in support of the Kosovo Campaign, Operation Enduring 
Freedom, and the Global War on Terror. His military service was marked 
by courage, professionalism, and devotion to duty earning him six Good 
Conduct Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, three 
Humanitarian Service Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary 
and Service Medals, and numerous unit and marksmanship awards 
recognizing his excellence and leadership across two decades of 
service.
  Following his distinguished naval career, Petty Officer Williams 
continued his lifelong mission of service by founding Texas Veterans 
Outdoors (TVO) in 2017, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping 
veterans transition successfully into civilian life. What began as a 
small grassroots effort in Denton County has grown into a global 
network of more than 9,000 members, providing mentorship, coaching, and 
fellowship to veterans and their families. Through outdoor experiences 
such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and retreats, TVO offers therapeutic 
and empowering opportunities that help veterans reconnect with 
themselves, their families, and their communities.
  Under Petty Officer Williams' leadership, Texas Veterans Outdoors has 
become a model of veteran-led outreach and healing, fostering 
resilience and camaraderie among service members across Texas and 
beyond. His work has strengthened families, inspired community 
partnerships, and created a legacy of compassion and leadership that 
continues to uplift those who have served.
  Petty Officer Williams' steadfast dedication to his fellow veterans, 
his community, and his country reflects the highest traditions of the 
United States Navy and brings great credit upon himself, the State of 
Texas, and the United States of America.

                          ____________________