Awarding Staff Sergeant Johnny Kirk A Congressional Veteran Commendation

Floor Speech

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Mr. FALLON. Madam Speaker, I am honored and privileged to award Staff Sergeant Johnny Kirk with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His service and sacrifice through the United States Air Force exemplify his national pride and embodiment as a role-model citizen to serve the country he loves. Staff Sergeant Kirk is truly an ideal candidate to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation.

Staff Sergeant Kirk served in the Vietnam War as a weapons specialist where he loaded ammunition and rockets onto OV-10s. He also performed as a spotter in the OV-10s, directing artillery fire and close air support needs. He served a total of fifteen months in Vietnam including twelve months with no leave.

Staff Sergeant Kirk's tour of duty was unexpectedly extended an extra three months. Yet, he maintained his quality of service as a patriot without complaint. To express the sacrifice made, Staff Sergeant Kirk's tour in Vietnam caused him to be classified as a disabled veteran due to Agent Orange exposure.

After discharge, Staff Sergeant Kirk became a CPS investigator and served many years as a CPS Investigative Supervisor. His work in training other investigators has affected every law enforcement agency in Grayson County. In addition, he has taught Texas Family Code and investigation classes at the Grayson County Police Academy.

After retiring from the CPS Investigative Agency after 26 years, Staff Sergeant Kirk has become an ordained Baptist Minister and continues to teach Sexual Assault Prevention classes to the public.

I am beyond honored to have Staff Sergeant Kirk in Texas' 4th Congressional District and am privileged to award such a distinguished citizen for his sacrifices.

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