[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 11]
[Senate]
[Page 15969]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        REMEMBERING BOB WHEELER

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today we honor the life and service 
of Bob Wheeler, whose passing signifies a great loss to Nevada. I send 
my condolences and prayers to his wife, M.J., and all of Mr. Wheeler's 
family in this time of mourning. Mr. Wheeler was a man of great wisdom, 
committed to his family, his country, his State, and his community. He 
will be greatly missed.
  Mr. Wheeler joined the U.S. Air Force in November of 1962, serving in 
the pararescue career field. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Wheeler 
remained dedicated and worked his way up to chief of pararescue. He was 
recognized as a true innovator in his leadership position, opening the 
door for free-fall parachuting and combat tactics. He led by example, 
working diligently and earnestly to help those around him and to 
protect our country.
  Mr. Wheeler is credited with saving 28 lives throughout his career, 
including vulnerable aviators who had crashed and distressed seamen in 
the Vietnam war. He was distinguished in his military decorations, 
which included the Distinguished Flying Cross for Valor, the Airman's 
Medal, numerous commendation medals, 17 Air Medals, and SEA services 
ribbons. During the Cold War, Mr. Wheeler participated in a high-risk 
scuba jump mission to save civilian lives. His courage and success 
throughout the mission earned him not only Yugoslavia's ``Nation's Life 
Saving Award'' but also the admiration of the Government and people of 
Yugoslavia. Mr. Wheeler retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1982. His 
accolades are well deserved, and his bravery in achieving them will 
never be forgotten.
  I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Wheeler personally, as he 
served on my Northern Nevada Veterans Advisory Council. We worked as a 
team, along with the rest of the council, to help improve resources for 
Nevada's veteran community. Mr. Wheeler had a vast understanding of 
Nevada's tight-knit veteran community and was always there to take a 
stand for those who served. His firsthand knowledge of combat and 
veterans needs could never be replicated--he was one of a kind, and I 
am thankful to have had him as an ally in helping Nevada's veterans.
  I extend my deepest sympathies to M.J. and all of Mr. Wheeler's 
family. We will always remember him for his courageous contributions to 
the United States of America. His service to his country and dedication 
to his family and community earn him a place among the outstanding men 
and women who have valiantly defended our Nation. His legacy of 
unwavering bravery and genuine compassion will live on for years to 
come.
  Throughout his life, Mr. Wheeler maintained a dedication to keeping 
this great Nation safe and to helping Nevada's veteran community. I am 
honored to commend his many contributions and achievements. His 
patriotism and drive will never be forgotten. Today, I join citizens 
across the Silver State in celebrating the life of an upstanding 
Nevadan, Bob Wheeler.




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