Recognizing United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Michael R. Vandriessche As April 2026 Veteran of the Month

Floor Speech

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Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Michael R. VanDriessche for his distinguished military service and continued dedication to supporting our Nation's warfighters. It is my honor to recognize his decades of leadership and service by naming him our April 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1991, beginning his career working with aircraft weapons systems. He quickly demonstrated strong dedication and leadership, earning an accelerated promotion early in his service. In 2001, he continued his service with the Michigan Air National Guard, where, following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, he volunteered to support homeland defense efforts. In this role, he became a trusted trainer and mentor while helping ensure aircraft were mission-ready.

Throughout his career, Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche held multiple operational and leadership roles focused on aircraft maintenance and mission readiness, including several overseas deployments in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he earned recognition for his service. In 2008, he was selected as a First Sergeant, advising commanders and supporting Airmen and their families. He later served in senior leadership roles, including a deployment to Kuwait, and in 2017 was appointed Group Superintendent, where he played a key role in guiding the organization and mentoring the next generation of Airmen.

Among his many honors, Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche received two Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation Medals, and three Air Force Achievement Medals. He was also selected as Weapons Technician of the Year twice, in 2006 and 2007.

Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche concluded his distinguished military career in 2022, after more than three decades of service. He continues to support the warfighter today as a civilian employee working on behalf of the Department of War in Warren, Michigan. Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche is married and the proud father of two children. He remains deeply involved in his community, coaching youth football and enjoying teaching, sports, physical fitness, hunting, and community service.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Master Sergeant Michael VanDriessche's career is a powerful example of dedication, leadership, and service to our Nation. It is my great privilege to recognize his many contributions and to honor his remarkable commitment to our country and community as our April 2026 Veteran of the Month.

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