Recognizing Captain Robert Nolen Rochell, Usa, Retired, with A Congressional Veteran Commendation

Floor Speech

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Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor retired USA Captain Robert Nolen Rochell, of Woodway, Texas, by presenting him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His unwavering commitment to his fellow man in some the darkest days of human history make him inexplicably worthy of our respect, admiration, and thanks.

Born in Marlin, Texas, Robert ``Bob'' N. Rochell made the courageous decision to leave high school at the age of 17 to enlist in the United States Army during World War II. Stationed at Dachau, Germany--site of profound historical significance as a former Nazi concentration camp-- he served with distinction as a World War II veteran.

Bob's commitment to service extended beyond World War II. As the Vietnam War loomed and the need for Field Artillery Officers grew, he applied to and was accepted into the United States Field Artillery Officer Candidate School, graduating 13th out of 125 in Class 8-65. He further demonstrated his dedication by attending Airborne School and serving a brief assignment at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Six months later, he began his first tour in Vietnam as a forward observer and air observer in the Central Highlands. Near the end of this tour, he served as Executive Officer of the 155mm howitzer battery airlifted into combat--Battery A, 1st Battalion. 20th Field Artillery-- which became the second most decorated Artillery Battalion of the Vietnam War. After returning from his first tour, Bob was assigned to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, as an instructor at the Officer Candidate School. He was subsequently called back for a second tour in Vietnam, where he served as Commanding Officer of Service, Headquarters, and Alpha Batteries. Captain Rochell retired from active duty on September 1, 1975.

His distinguished military career is reflected in the numerous decorations he received: the Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, the Good Conduct Medal with Clasp (Bronze, four loops), the Army Occupation Medal (Germany), the National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star and one Bronze Star, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Meritorious Unit Citation, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Parachutist Badge.

Captain Rochell's dedication to service continued long after his military career. He served as the national president of the Society of the Fifth Infantry Division and as president of the Heart of Texas Chapter of The Retired Officers Association (TROA), a predecessor of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). He is a life member of the 1st Battalion, 30th Field Artillery Association (Hard Chargers), where he served on the board as First Vice President. Additionally, he is an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Fifth Division Association, the U.S. Field Artillery Association, and the Disabled American Veterans.

Robert was married to the late Elizabeth Leggitt for over 40 years, sharing a life grounded in mutual support and community service. Today, he remains an active member of his community and continues to contribute to the Heart of Texas Military Officers Association of America.

It is my honor to award retired USA Captain Robert Nolen Rochell a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His lifelong commitment to his country and community exemplifies the highest standards of service and sacrifice.

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