[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 55 (Tuesday, March 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E259]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING CHARLES RICHTER ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MICHAEL CLOUD

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 24, 2026

  Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Charles Richter, a 
World War II veteran and Victoria resident, as he celebrates his 100th 
birthday. His life reflects service, perseverance, and a deep 
commitment to family and country.
  Charles was born on March 23, 1926, in Yoakum, Texas, into a German 
American family with deep roots in South Texas. He spent his early 
years in Brownsville before moving to Victoria. As the oldest of six 
children, during the years surrounding the Great Depression and World 
War II, he helped support his family while completing his education.
  The day after graduating from Victoria High School in 1944, Charles 
enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the final year of 
World War II as a boiler room technician aboard destroyer escorts 
protecting merchant convoys in the Atlantic Theater.
  Following the war, Charles earned a business degree from Texas A&I 
University in Kingsville, married in 1951, and then began a career as a 
transportation superintendent. After retirement, he operated a cattle 
ranch and dedicated his time to mentoring youth as an assistant 
Scoutmaster. In recognition of his lifelong commitment to service, 
Charles was awarded the ``Spirit of Scouting'' Award by the Rio Grande 
Council's South Texas Council on January 22, 2026.
  As he celebrates a century of life, we honor his legacy of hard work, 
humility, and devotion to his family, community, and country. I wish 
Charles a happy birthday.

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