Recognizing Senior Chief Petty Officer Walter Miller Lavender, Usn, Retired, with A Congressional Veteran Commendation

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor retired USN Senior Chief Petty Officer Walter Miller Lavender, of Lorena, Texas, by presenting him with a Congressional Veteran Commendation. His remarkable accomplishments reflect a life dedicated not only to the greater good but also to his community and his country. exemplifying the values that define true patriotism.

Walter began his journey at Cisco Junior College on a football scholarship and gained recognition as an award-winning boxer. He later transferred to Midwestern State University but chose in 1961 to enlist in the United States Navy, answering a higher call to serve.

Trained as a medic, he was first stationed in Guam, where he honed his medical skills and survived the devastating Super Typhoon Karen in 1962. His resilience and commitment were further demonstrated during two tours in Vietnam. In 1965, as a Combat Medic with the 7th Marines near Quy Nhon, he provided critical care to wounded soldiers under fire. In 1970. aboard the helicopter carrier USS Iwo Jima, he was responsible for evacuating casualties, ensuring that injured service members received timely medical attention.

Walter also served aboard the USS Dewey and the USS Ward, showcasing versatility and leadership across multiple assignments. After over 22 years of distinguished service. he retired in 1983 as a Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman from the Marine Corps Reserve in Waco, Texas.

His exemplary service is reflected in the numerous decorations he received: the Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, five Good Conduct Awards, the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross, and the Seventh Fleet ``Shell Back'' Recognition aboard the USS Dewey.

Following his military career, Walter continued to serve his community as a Radiologic Technologist in local hospitals until his retirement in 2014. He also served as a Municipal Court Judge in the 1980s, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to public service.

Today, he remains actively involved as the treasurer of the Heart of Texas Vietnam Veterans Association Chapter 1012 and serves as a health and wellness advisor and PTSD mentor at the Waco Veterans One-Stop and the Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network. His dedication to supporting fellow veterans and their families highlights his belief in service beyond self.

Those who know Walter describe him as embodying the values of duty, honor, and country. His selfless commitment to helping others continues to inspire all who meet him.

To honor his sacrifice and service, I am pleased to award retired USN Senior Chief Petty Officer Walter Miller Lavender with a Congressional Veteran Commendation.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source