[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 75 (Wednesday, April 29, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2123-S2124]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO RICHARD CHILDRESS

 Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Richard 
Childress, a North Carolina native, NASCAR Hall of Fame team owner, and 
a leader whose impact reaches far beyond the racetrack.
  From humble beginnings, Mr. Childress built Richard Childress Racing 
into one of the most respected organizations in motorsports, creating 
jobs for hundreds of North Carolinians and competing at the highest 
levels of the sport. He has led his teams to more than 200 victories 
and 17 championships, including 6 with the legendary Dale Earnhardt, 
and helped shape NASCAR into what it is today.
  What stands out most about Richard Childress is how he has used that 
success to support others, especially those

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who have served our country. He has made it a priority to show up for 
servicemembers and veterans in meaningful ways. He has visited troops 
at home and overseas, hosted monthly ``Coffee with Veterans'' 
gatherings at his race shop in Welcome, NC, and regularly opened his 
facilities to Active-Duty units for team-building and fellowship. These 
are not one-time gestures. They reflect a personal commitment to 
honoring those who serve. His efforts have been recognized with the 
Helping a Hero Lee Greenwood Patriot Award.
  Mr. Childress has also used his platform to support American workers 
and communities. Through his businesses, including engine development, 
manufacturing, and agriculture, he has invested in North Carolina and 
created opportunities across multiple industries. He has been a 
consistent advocate for American agriculture and homegrown energy, 
supporting policies that benefit rural communities and strengthen 
domestic production.
  Alongside his wife Judy, Mr. Childress cofounded the Childress 
Institute for Pediatric Trauma, which has grown into a nationwide 
effort to improve how we prevent and treat serious injuries in 
children. It reflects his belief that success should be used to make a 
difference in the lives of others.
  Mr. Childress' legacy is defined not only by his accomplishments in 
motorsports, but by his commitment to people, his support for veterans, 
and his investment in his home State of North Carolina. He has set an 
example that extends well beyond the track and into communities across 
our State and Nation.

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