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Recognizing Chief Master Sergeant Robert S. Smith

Floor Speech

Date: Dec. 15, 2025
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Robert S. Smith on his retirement from service to our Nation in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard.

Chief Smith entered the U.S. Air Force in December 1987, completing the Aerospace Ground Equipment Apprentice course in June 1988. During his active component service from June 1988 to October 1999, Chief Smith performed numerous support functions within the Maintenance Group and Logistics Group, as well as Quality Assurance Inspector and Exercise Evaluation Team Member.

Chief Smith deployed in support of myriad missions, including Operation Provide Comfort, Northern Watch, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Unified Protector. In 2013, he completed a tour at the Air National Guard Readiness Center as the subject matter expert for the A4/M Equipment Management section.

Currently, Chief Smith is the Command Chief Master Sergeant of the 193d Special Operations Wing based in Middletown, Pennsylvania--not only one of the largest Air National Guard units in the Country, but a premiere one unlike any other--a profound testament to his leadership skills. He serves as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Wing Commander on all issues affecting mission effectiveness, health, morale, readiness, enlisted development, and mentoring of approximately 1,900 Airmen.

Throughout his decorated career, Chief Smith earned a multitude of awards and decorations, to include the: Meritorious Service Medal (w/4 OLC); Air Force Commendation Medal (w/4 OLC); Air Force Achievement Medal; Pennsylvania Commendation Medal; General Thomas J. Stewart Medal; and the Major General Thomas R. White, Jr. Medal.

Chief Smith is a member of the National Guard Association of the United States, the Pennsylvania National Guard Association, the 193rd Special Operations Wing Association, and VFW Post 9738.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize Chief Master Smith on his retirement upon more than 38 years of service to our Nation in uniform--26 of those in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. His tireless service and dedication to his fellow Airmen and the United States of America set the standard by which we all should be judged.

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