Recognizing Chief Master Sergeant James J. Weller

Floor Speech

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Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent from my district, Chief Master Sergeant James J. Weller. CMSgt Weller is retiring from the United States Air Force after 42 years of faithful service to our country.

Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, Jim went on to graduate from Upper Dublin High School in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania. He began his career of service early as a Civil Air Patrol Cadet and would go on to enlist as an Infantryman in the U.S. Army Reserves. In 1983 he transferred to the Air Force and began an illustrious career that saw him serve in locales throughout the world in support of the Cold War and the Global War on Terror.

Jim has served in many positions in defense of our great nation to include Military Law Enforcement, Aircraft Armament Technician, Emergency Manager, and various other additional duties. In March of 2003, Jim was part of the Red Tail Express, the first successful Air Force ground convoy into Iraq. On a subsequent deployment to Iraq, he served as the Security Escort Manager to Baghdad Air Base. Jim's professional excellence and dedication to service is exemplified in his support of Operations Desert Storm, Deny Flight, Southern Watch, Southern Focus, Inherent Resolve, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

On the domestic front, Jim leveraged his extensive military experience in disaster management across 20 domestic operations. Notably he supported efforts during Covid-19, Hurricanes Floyd and Irene, Tropical Storm Lee, and Super Storm Sandy. His security expertise has been used in support of G-20 summits, a Papal visit, the 2016 Democratic National Convention and Presidential Inaugurations. Jim has also been instrumental in service to our local community where he serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Civil Air Patrol as well as volunteer Fire Rescue and Emergency Medical Services.

In his private life, Jim and his wife Michelle reside in Warrington, Pennsylvania where they have raised 4 wonderful children.

We are all incredibly grateful for the positive impact Jim has had through his long career, and we wish him countless blessings during his retirement.

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