Recognizing Mr. Ray Fletcher

Floor Speech

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Mr. GILL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mr. Ray Fletcher of Cooke County, Texas, for a lifetime of devoted service to our nation, The Great State of Texas, and his local community.

Mr. Fletcher first answered the call to serve when he joined the United States Air Force in 1981, where he trained and served as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist. Over the course of an honorable 22-year military career, he rose to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, exemplifying leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the security of our country. He retired from active duty in 2003, but his public service was far from over.

Immediately upon retirement, Mr. Fletcher began his second career in direct service to the people of Cooke County as the Emergency Manager and Fire Marshal. In this role, which he held for an additional 22 years, he became a cornerstone of public safety and emergency preparedness in North Texas. Mr. Fletcher led Cooke County through seven federally declared disasters, investigated over 400 fires, and oversaw numerous other critical incidents that required his seasoned judgment and calm leadership. Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Fletcher was instrumental in coordinating the Individual Safe Room Grant Program, a vital initiative that led to the installation of 425 storm shelters across Cooke County. His foresight and dedication undoubtedly made Cooke County a safer place for all who call it home.

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Ray Fletcher's contributions to his country and community reflect the very best of American values. I am proud to represent such a distinguished citizen in the 26th Congressional District of Texas. On behalf of a grateful community, I thank him for his selfless service and wish him continued happiness in his well- earned retirement.

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