CB Luce Presents

Sam Johnson encourages Texans to send ‘Holiday Mail for Heroes’

Posted November 4, 2011

Today, U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (TX-03) participated in the fifth annual “Holiday Mail for Heroes” by sending words of encouragement and gratitude to American military troops and encouraged Texans to join in by the December 7 deadline. 

Created by the Red Cross, Holiday Mail for Heroes allows people to mail Christmas cards and personal greetings to soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines overseas and at home as well as veterans and family members of deployed active-duty military members.  The Red Cross will work with Pitney Bowes to screen all mail for security purposes and then deliver the greetings to over 300 locations worldwide.

“I know what it’s like to be a world away from loved ones during the holidays.  Sending our brave men and women in uniform words of encouragement, support and prayer can make a big difference.  It’s important to honor, remember and recognize their sacrifice, and Holiday Mail for Heroes is a terrific way to do that,” said Johnson, a 29-year Air Force veteran and former Prisoner of War in Vietnam for nearly seven years.

People may send cards to Holiday Mail for Heroes, P.O. Box 5456, Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456.  Greetings must have adequate postage.  Cards received after December 7^th will be returned.

In December 2007, Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. approached the Red Cross to distribute thousands of holiday cards coming to the facility for wounded troops.  The Red Cross reached out to Pitney Bowes to turn the project into a larger opportunity that could reach members of the military at other facilities.  Now in its third year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans with the opportunity to extend holiday greetings and thanks to service members, veterans and their families worldwide.  Last year the program received more than 1.4 million cards for service members, their families, and veterans, in communities around the world. 

The Red Cross asks that people follow several guidelines while preparing holiday greetings:

Do: sign all cards; entitle cards “Dear Service Member, Family or Veteran;” limit cards to 15 per person or 50 for school class or business group; and bundle groups of cards in single, large envelopes. 

Do not: send letters; include personal information such as home or email addresses to request contact or reciprocity; use glitter as excessive amounts can aggravate health issues of wounded recipients; or include inserts of any kind as they must be removed in the screening process. 

Learn more at http://www.redcross.org/holidaymail.

Posted August 29, 2011

Air Force Airman Andrew W. Buckler graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Ronald Buckler of Garland and Anna Aleman of Estherville, Iowa.  Buckler graduated in 2010 from Lakeview Centennial High School.

Posted August 29, 2011

Air Force Airman Jasmine R. Harris graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San 

Antonio. 

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the granddaughter of Barbara Bollin of Lancaster and daughter of Pamela Harris Gill of Garland.  Harris graduated in 2005 from Lake Highlands High School.

Posted August 15, 2011

Air Force Airman 1st Class Isabel Rendon graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the daughter of Elizabeth Nelms of Rowlett.

GHS graduate participates in
military exercise in Morocco

July 12, 2011 | Air Force Staff Sgt. Jessica Switzer

The sun barely peeked over the horizon when the stillness was shattered by the roar of artillery.  The son of a Garland couple crawled out of his tent into the southern Moroccan morning to begin another day. 

Marine Corps Reserve Lance Cpl. Carlos M. Torres, son of Teodulo and Luisa Torres, is in Morocco supporting exercise African Lion 2011. 

"I work in the motor transportation unit to support the artillery and ground units," said Torres, a 2008 graduate of Garland High School.

African Lion is an exercise between the Kingdom of Morocco and the U.S. that involves more than 2,000 U.S. service members and approximately 900 members of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces.  The exercise serves as a way for U.S. and Moroccan military members to hone their skills and learn to work together to a accomplish missions. 

"It's great to see how people who live in a different place train.  It's similar because we all have our own rank structures," said Torres, a logistics vehicle operator from the 6th Motor Transport Battalion, Texarkana.

In spite of the barriers, Torres and his fellow service members worked with the Moroccan forces on training including command post, live fire, peacekeeping, disaster response, aerial refueling, and low-level flight training.  Both Moroccan and U.S. forces receive valuable training during the exercise. 

"This exercise is letting me learn my job in the unit better and learn how others in my unit train to be more knowledgeable during missions to help complete the task," said Torres.

Torres and his fellow service members not only trained in the Moroccan desert, they lived there as well.  They experienced sandstorms, the rain showers of the wet season, and the heat that goes with a desert.  They even had an opportunity to spend some time experiencing the culture and seeing the sights.

"It's very humid here.  There's a lot of sand, and nothing in sight.  It's exactly what I expected, except that I thought I was going to see more livestock," said Torres, who has completed two years of service.

As the artificial thunder of artillery fire dies away for a moment, the sun rises fully above the desert horizon and begins its journey toward the nearby Atlantic Ocean.  Torres and the other participants go about their business sharing experiences and knowledge with each other.

Photos by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Sean Worrell

·         Marine Corps Reserve Lance Cpl. Carlos M. Torres recently deployed to Morocco. 

·         An M1 Abrams tank fires on a range in southern Morocco. 

·         Marines practice their team work while firing mortars. 

·         Marines work on their marksmanship. 

·         A group of Marines work on their squad movement.

·         Navy Seabees use a forklift to get to hard-to-reach places while building a shelter.  

·         Marines clean their weapons, talk and find other ways to spend their off-duty time while deployed to southern Morocco during African Lion 2011.

·         A team of Marines prepares to fire an M777 Howitzer. 

Posted July 12, 2011

Texas A&M University Cadet Brent Green from Garland makes his way up the rope climb during the Confidence Course of Operation Warrior Forge at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

The Leader Development and Assessment Course, also known as Operation WARRIOR FORGE, is Cadet Command's capstone training exercise – an Army-directed requirement for all Cadets who will become Army lieutenants through ROTC.

U.S. Army photo by Jesse Beals

Congressman Johnson praises ‘Welcome Home a Hero’ program

Posted July 1, 2011

Recently the “Welcome Home a Hero” program marked seven years at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.  To commemorate the occasion, I called on the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in congratulating them in a job well done.  You may read a copy of the Congressional Record below.

As we pause to mark Independence Day, I hope you’ll consider finding time to volunteer once this summer with Welcome Home a Hero.  For July, on even days, flights will arrive at 8 a.m. at Terminal D, Gate 22.  On odd days, flights will arrive at 12:15 p.m. at Terminal B, Gate 37.  To confirm or learn of flight arrival changes, call 972-574-0392 after 8 p.m. the night before for a recorded message for details for the following day.  To learn more, visit www.dfwairport.com/heroes.

Celebrating America’s birthday by supporting our guardians of freedom this summer is an excellent way to pay tribute to our independence.  God bless you and God bless America. 

Saluting “Welcome Home a Hero”

“Mr. Speaker, as a 29-year Air Force veteran and a former Prisoner of War for nearly 7 years, more than half of that time in solitary confinement, it gives me great joy to request that the U.S. House of Representatives formally recognize and commemorate the 7th anniversary of the ‘Welcome Home a Hero Program’ at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport.  I especially want to thank the kind folks at DFW, the North Texas Commission, and the USO for their efforts to recognize and show their appreciation to the brave men and women who serve our country.

‘Welcome Home a Hero’ is a volunteer program to encourage and support our deployed military and greet troops at DFW International Airport as they return home for two weeks of R&R.  Anywhere from 150 to 275 troops come through DFW each day, with one flight arriving daily and one flight departing daily.  Volunteers gather each day to welcome these troops off their flight, thanking and encouraging them for their service to our great nation.

“This wonderful program started in the summer of 2004 when the U.S. military selected DFW to begin receiving the daily 20-hour flights from Kuwait.  Once the flights began, grassroots groups, schools, churches, scouts and veterans organizations began to greet the troops on a daily basis. DFW fire trucks welcome every military charter on the runway with a ‘shower of affection’ to begin the celebration. 

“In fact, ‘Welcome Home a Hero’ has greeted more than 1 million troops during the course of the program by dedicated volunteers who greet troops daily.  I had the privilege of attending the one millionth warrior ceremony at DFW and let’s just say that there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. 

 “If you want to experience the best America has to offer – respect for freedom, gratitude for service and sacrifice and a deep, deep love of country - just head on down to Terminal D or Terminal B depending on the day.  You’ll witness the show of support from volunteers from across North Texas and the unbridled joy and emotional high of a family embracing a returning warrior.  Cheerful and faithful patriots of all ages and stages wearing their finest red, white and blue attire show up so that they can let complete strangers who dedicate their lives to our armed forces know that we love them, we care about them, we pray for them and we appreciate them. 

 “You’ll see humble veterans from wars gone by who know that freedom is not free.  You’ll meet Vietnam veteran Bert Brady who makes a point of ensuring that this generation of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines returns with honor and a warm welcome – unlike the men who came home from Vietnam.  You’ll feel a sweet embrace from the ‘huggin’ and kissin’ grandmas’ who make it a habit of planting a big one on digi-cammie clad warriors.  Each volunteer offers a sweet smile, a love of country and respect for service that truly welcomes home our troops with the way they deserve to be treated. 

 “As a combat veteran who witnessed the ultimate low for returning warriors from Vietnam, I made a promise to myself that when, not if, I escaped my captivity in Vietnam, I would do anything and everything in my power to treat our men and women of the United States Armed Forces with the respect and honor that they deserve.  “Welcome Home a Hero” is a shining example of that golden homecoming and showcases how much North Texans – and Americans – support our troops. 

 “If people across America find themselves travelling through DFW, I encourage them to call the R&R update line 972-574-0392 to learn of the next arrival ceremony and to see if they may participate in a truly heartwarming and uplifting welcome home celebration for our armed forces.  They also may go to www.dfwairport.com/heroes.

 “On this day, I respectfully request that the United States House of Representatives reaffirms our unwavering commitment to actively promote and support the “Welcome Home a Hero Program” and its invaluable importance to the morale and welfare of those men and women who serve our country.  Make no mistake -- America remains the land of the free because of the brave.  God bless America.”

Congressman Johnson to salute armed forces of tomorrow 

Posted June 15, 2011

On Saturday, June 18, U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3^rd Dist.-Texas) will salute the future of our armed forces when he congratulates service-academy bound students and their families at a private meeting.  Emily Boyson of Garland, who will be attending the Merchant Marine Academy, will be recognized at this event.

“These students represent the future of our armed forces.  Each one is a leader and will do a superb job serving in the finest military in the world.  My thoughts and prayers are with each student as they pursue their dreams and serve their country,” Johnson said.  A 29-year Air Force veteran, Johnson spent nearly seven years as a Prisoner of War, more than half of that time in solitary confinement, during the Vietnam War. 

Saturday’s gathering is the last formal event with the Congressman for the students and their families before classes begin. 

Third District residents interested in seeking nominations to a service academy for the class entering in summer 2012 should contact Lori McMahon in the Congressman’s Texas office at 972-470-0892. 

Posted June 2, 2011

Air Force Reserve Airman Stephen A. Limonta graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Limonta of Garland.

Posted June 2, 2011
  

Air Force Airman Lyna Nguyen graduated from basic military training at 

Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training

in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and 

basic warfare principles and skills.

She is the daughter of Terri Doan and Husien Al of Garland and a 2010 graduate of Berkner High School

in Richardson.

Posted June 2, 2011

Air Force Airman Joshua P. Shine graduated from basic military training at Lackland

Air Force Base, San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in 

military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic 

warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Bobby and Doris Shine of Garland and a 2008 graduate of Berkner High School in Richardson.

Posted June 2, 2011

Air Force Airman Carla D. Venetucci graduated from basic military training at 

Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training

in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic 

warfare principles and skills.

Venetucci earned distinction as an honor graduate. She is the daughter of Rickey and Vivienne McDevitt of Garland 

and a 2002 graduate of North Garland High School.  

Garland soldier dies in Afghanistan

Kim Everett | May 27, 2011

Pvt. Andrew M. Krippner of Garland and three of his fellow soldiers were killed in in Kunar province, Afghanistan in an enemy attack with a makeshift bomb.  Also killed in the attack were Staff Sergeant Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, 33, of California, Pfc. William S. Blevens, 21, of Ohio, and Pvt. Thomas C. Allers, 23, of Michigan.

The four were a part of the 2^nd Battalion, 27^th Infantry Regiment, 3^rd Brigade Combat Team, 25^th Infantry Division from the Schofield Barracks in Hawaii.

Pvt. Krippner, 20, was an 11B Infantryman and had earned the following awards and decorations:  National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Purple Heart.  This was his first deployment, and he had been in Afghanistan for approximately six weeks.

Pvt. Krippner was the only child of Ken and Pam Krippner, and Ken is a pastor at Garland’s Concordia Lutheran Church.   

Notes can be left for the soldier’s parents and donations can be made in memory of Pvt. Krippner at www.concordiatx.org.

An exact date has not yet been set for the funeral.  It will be some time during the week of May 29.  Messages can also be left at http://www.legacy.com/guestbook/guestbook.aspx?n=andrew-m-krippner&pid=151304671&sign=1&cid=sugg.

Rowlett HS graduate trains for Middle East deployment

Posted May 29, 2011

Every year, thousands of military men and women deploy to the Middle East where they live and work under austere conditions in some of the most remote areas of the world. All of this while being on a continuous lookout for whatever attack an enemy force may make. The son of a Garland man recently experienced a glimpse of what life over there will be like when he spent a month at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif. For two weeks of his time there he lived and worked in tents while under a constant threat of simulated attacks.     

Army Spec. Eladio Garcia, son of Eladio Garcia of Garland, was in the Mojave Desert with other members of his unit to receive some of the most advanced and realistic training the military has to offer.

A large portion of Fort Irwin's more than 642,000 acres has been transformed to simulate conditions similar to what soldiers will experience while deployed. There are base camps and forward operating bases spread throughout the area about the size of the state of Rhode Island. There are also mock towns and villages housing military trainers and civilian role players to give Garcia and other members of his brigade a feeling of actually being deployed.

Garcia is a common ground station operator assigned to the 4th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Tex. "I am receiving job focused training to prepare myself for my deployment," said the 2007 graduate of Rowlett High School.

To add to the realism, entire villages have been constructed to simulate situations soldiers will face in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, and in places, role players, many Iraqi Americans, inhabit the villages during the two week training objective.  "The training here is pretty good and realistic," said Garcia.

The live fire exercises, route clearing courses, bare living conditions, simulated mortar attacks, and convoy training are designed to prepare Garcia and his fellow soldiers for challenges they may face in their deployment.  "The hardest part of training is trying to do our job while our system isn't working properly," said Garcia.

Training before deployment helps to ensure troops are aware of the latest tactics the enemy is using, and to help them prepare for just about any situation they may find.

"I think that I will be pretty prepared for this deployment. This is pretty similar to the previous deployment I was on," said Garcia, who has completed three years of military service.

While the NTC is harsh in its environment and extreme temperatures that can sizzle to over 120 degrees, it is the perfect training ground for soldiers who may face similar conditions in Iraq or Afghanistan. 

Photos by Staff Sgt. Christopher Griffin:

1. Army Spec. Eladio Garcia, 4th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss recently attended training at the NTC at Fort Irwin.

2. A suspected insurgent is apprehended during a raid on a building during a training scenario.

3. A member of the 1st Armored Division encounters a group of local villagers during a training scenario.

4. Members of 1st Armored Division put an engine back into a Bradley armored vehicle after replacing the transmission.

5. Armored vehicles line up in a convoy to move from Madina-Jabal, a camp set up at the NTC. 

Posted May 27, 2011

Navy Seaman Recruit Tamar R. Swinton, niece of Krista D. Alexander of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Swinton completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted 
		May 27, 2011

Navy Seaman Apprentice Jemarquis S. Cawthon, son of Johnata V. Cawthon of Garland, was recently 

promoted to his current rank upon graduation from recruit training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

Cawthon received the early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. 

Training included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety

 and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Cawthon is a 2009 graduate of South Garland High School.

Posted May 11, 2011

Air Force Airman Joseph W. Dockery graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Jed and Nona Dockery of Garland and a 2006 graduate of Sachse High School.

Posted May 11, 2011

Air Force Airman Nicholas A. Pierce graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Cary Arzola of Sachse and a 2010 graduate of Sachse High School.

Posted April 27, 2011

Navy Seaman Ryan D. Lively, son of Brooke Lively of Garland and David W. Lively of Emory, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Lively completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted April 20, 2011

Air Force Airman Matthew L. Crawford graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Shellye Crawford of Rowlett.
 

Posted April 8, 2011

Marine Corps Cpl. Dustin L. Duffie, son of Donna D. Duffie of Garland, alongside fellow Marines attached to 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines, Battery K, stationed in U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Training, Huntsville, Ala., recently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom

Marines assigned to a firing battery are responsible for moving, loading, firing, protecting and maintaining the cannon weapon systems.  Battery K will be provide rocket and missile fire support for Marine Air-Ground Task Force and Joint Task Force operations, in support of OEF.

Duffie is a 2003 graduate of Berkner High School and joined the Marine Corps Reserve in June 2008.

Posted April 8, 2011 

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Joseph R. Best, son of Donna J. Best of Garland and William L. Best of Irving, alongside fellow Marines attached to 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines, Battery K, stationed in U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Training, Huntsville, Ala., recently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Marines assigned to a firing battery are responsible for moving, loading, firing, protecting and maintaining the cannon weapon systems.  Battery K will be provide rocket and missile fire support for Marine Air-Ground Task Force and Joint Task Force operations, in support of OEF.

Best is a 2007 graduate of South Garland High School and joined the Marine Corps Reserve in December 2008.

Posted April 8, 2011

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Cory S. Sockwell, son of Angie Moreland of Sachse, alongside fellow Marines attached to 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines, Battery K, stationed in U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Training, Huntsville, Ala., recently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Marines assigned to a firing battery are responsible for moving, loading, firing, protecting and maintaining the cannon weapon systems.  Battery K will be provide rocket and missile fire support for Marine Air-Ground Task Force and Joint Task Force operations, in support of OEF.

Sockwell is a 2008 graduate of Wylie High School and joined the Marine Corps Reserve in June 2008.

Posted April 8, 2011

Coast Guard Seaman Recruit Daniel Koerner, son of Mary L. and Don M. Koerner of Garland, recently graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Training Center in Cape May, N. J.

During the eight-week training program, Koerner completed a vigorous training curriculum consisting of academics and practical instruction on water safety and survival, military customs and courtesies, seamanship skills, physical fitness, health and wellness, first aid, firefighting and marksmanship. 

Koerner is a 2010 graduate of Lakeview Centennial High School.

Posted April 8, 2011

Navy Seaman Recruit Gary L. Nicholson, III, a 2010 graduate of Sachse High School, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.        

During the eight-week program, Nicholson completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted March 29, 2011

Air Force Airman Sydney R. Terrell graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Terrell's parents are Michelle Terrell of Carrollton and Scott Terrell of Garland.

Posted March 29, 2011

Navy Seaman Patrick R. Masoner, son of Sandra A. and Walter K. Masoner of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. with honors.

Posted March 29, 2011

Navy Seaman Donovan Hightower, son of Tamela Page of Garland and John Hightower of Dallas, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Hightower completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Hightower is a 2009 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Sam Johnson to mark shoot down anniversary, 
launch Congressional Veteran Commendation program

Posted March 26, 2011

To mark the anniversary of his shoot down that started almost 2,500 days in captivity in Vietnam, U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3^rd Dist.-Texas) will launch the Congressional Veteran Commendation program aimed at recognizing the district’s military men and women for outstanding service to our nation.

Johnson will make the announcement at A Celebration of Freedom on Sunday, April 17 at 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of Canyon Creek Baptist Church located at 2800 Custer Parkway in Richardson. In addition to providing specific details about the recognition and nomination process, Johnson will share his stories of his time as a Prisoner of War.  The event is open to the public and the media.  Veterans and families are encouraged to attend this free patriotic program.

“We are the land of the free because of the brave.  We owe a debt of gratitude to our veterans.   I hope folks will come out for this special time when we pay tribute to those who have worn the uniform.  It will be fun for the whole family and a true celebration of freedom,” said Johnson.

The Congressional Veteran Commendation, in conjunction with the Veterans History Project sponsored by the Library of Congress, was created to honor the distinguished veterans of the third district of Texas and to preserve their stories for future generations of Americans.   To be considered for this award, the nominee must reside in the third district. 

Johnson will publicly recognize those individuals slated to receive the Congressional Veteran Commendation at a later date.  If the recipient so desires, an in-depth interview will be conducted with honorees and that interview will be forwarded to the Veterans History Project to be added to the Library of Congress collection.  For more information regarding the project, visit http://www.loc.gov/vets/.

April 16, 1966, is the day that changed the life of Sam Johnson.  After talking with his wife, Johnson left for his 25^th mission over Vietnam.  Within minutes of taking off in his F-4, he encountered enemy fire, ejected from his plane, and was immediately captured in the middle of a rice paddy.  On that day Johnson became a Prisoner of War for nearly seven years, more than half of that time in solitary confinement.   Johnson represents portions of Dallas and Collin Counties.

Posted March 22, 2011

Navy Seaman Apprentice Deontae Roy, son of Sherrine D. and Taj M. Polk of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Roy completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Roy is a 2010 graduate of Naaman Forest High School of Garland, Texas.

Posted March 20, 2011

Air Force Airman Ravon D. Stewart graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Stewart is the daughter of Lanel Stewart of Garland and sister of Brittney Stewart of New Orleans, La.

Posted March 20, 2011

Air Force Airman Clayton W. Brant graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

Posted March 2, 2011

Air Force Airman 1st Class Andrew R. Shields graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.    

He is the son of Ken and Robin Shields of Rowlett and a 2005 graduate from Rowlett High School.

Posted February 26, 2011

Air Force Airman Patrick H. Tran graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Posted Feb. 20, 2011

Navy Seaman Apprentice Deontae Roy, son of Sherrine D. and Taj M. Polk of Garland recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Roy completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Roy is a 2010 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Posted February 15, 2011

Air Force Airman Jeremiah A. Godwin graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Bogy and Julie Godwin of Rowlett and a 2010 graduate of Rowlett High School. 

Posted February 15, 2011 

Air Force Airman Daniel R. Carlson graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the nephew of David and Diana Moore of Garland and a 2008 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Posted February 15, 2011

Air Force Airman Camron R. Wheeler graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the former ward of Cheryl Hayes of Garland and a 2010 graduate of South Garland High School.

Garland woman’s son helps
people around the globe

Air Force Staff Sgt. Christopher Holmes | February 4, 2011

Last year, newspaper headlines and television and radio newscasts blasted our senses with reports of such things as devastating earthquakes in Haiti and Chile, along with massive floods in Pakistan and a volcanic eruption in Iceland. After a few days, though, media reports moved on to the next big news event. But for the son of a Garland woman, picking up the pieces in the aftermath in places like Haiti and Pakistan was just the beginning of business as usual.

Air Force Senior Airman Matthew E. Ross, son of Marjorie L. Sundquist of Garland, is a security forces journeyman assigned to the 621st Contingency Response Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Ross is part of a highly specialized unit that can deploy quickly to combat hotspots or disaster areas and quickly open airfields and is often the first to provide a vital pipeline in getting food and supplies to the devastated areas.

"I am a close precision engagement troop, so I conduct recon, and I'm a force multiplier for base security," said Ross, a 2002 graduate of Rockwall Christian Academy.

Ross and his team are made up of three main organizations in 10 geographically separated areas that are often co-located with Army and Marine Corps units. Everything from air refueling to command and control, offloading and loading people and equipment, security, maintenance, and damage assessment is included in the make-up of the units. Ross and his team often find themselves working and living in conditions far from ideal.

"I was part of a contingency response element in Afghanistan. We were in Northern Afghanistan near a mountain range that was the border to Uzbekistan," said Ross. "It was very hot and dusty."

While the wing's main focus is opening airfields and providing relief efforts after a disaster like in Haiti and Afghanistan, Ross and his team are also needed to deploy in support of the wartime mission.  "I was integrated with the surge into Afghanistan," said Ross.

Ross also believes that, even though his wartime mission is important, being the first to respond to disasters around the world gives the U.S. the reputation of lending a helping hand when needed.  "America has taken it upon itself to help the people that need it. Without America, many countries would not have had the ability to bounce back," said Ross.

But having the ability to respond anywhere around the world on a moment's notice means that Ross and his unit are required to constantly train to stay sharp at what they do. A number of functions need to come together at once to make things happen.  "Constantly being ready to deploy at a moment's notice makes planning vacations and trips home hard sometimes," said Ross.

No one knows what disaster or trouble spot waits, but it's a good bet that Ross and his team won't be far behind to help pick up the pieces.

Photos:

1. Air Force Senior Airman Matthew E. Ross helped move cargo and passengers into Haiti after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck the region in 2010. (Photo by Benjamin Faske)

2. Local volunteers unload a truck of water during relief efforts after earthquake. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

3. U.S. citizens in Haiti line up to board a C-17A Globemaster III after earthquake. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

4. A member of the U.S. Navy carries wounded child to a helicopter to be transported for specialized care. The child was wounded during the earthquake. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

5. Members of the Air Force greet a bus of children during recovery operations. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

6. More than 30 million pounds of supplies were flown into Haiti. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

7. Collapsing buildings leave thousands homeless and without food and water. (Photo by Capt. Dustin Doyle)

Johnson kicks off Valentines for Vets

Posted January 25, 2011

Today U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3rd Dist.-Texas) encouraged all Third Congressional District students to participate in the annual “Valentines for Veterans” drive by creating hand-made Valentines for former and current members of the armed forces.  Last year, 19 area public and private schools, including one home school group, participated in the program.

“These students love the opportunity each year to say ‘thank you’ for something we all love and value so much - our freedom. Valentines for Veterans is a creative way to thank these brave men and women. The students’ hard work, enthusiasm and patriotism is greatly appreciated,” said Johnson.

Every February, Americans show their gratitude to hospitalized veterans by sending Valentines cards and letters to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers across the country in conjunction with National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week.  Johnson and his staff will hand-deliver the cards on Valentine’s Day at the Dallas VA Medical Center as well as to returning American soldiers from the Middle East at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

This year, staff and volunteers will pick up Valentines from designated schools on February 8, 9, and 10.  To coordinate a pick-up or to register an ISD, contact the local office by February 4 at Susan.Fischer@mail.house.gov or by phone at 972-470-0892.  Members of the public may drop off Valentines at a local school or in the district office.

Garland ISD drop-off schools include:

Rowlett (GISD):   Back Elementary:  7300 Bluebonnet Drive

                         Contact:  Debbie Moss:  972-494-8301

Sachse (GISD):  Armstrong Elementary:  4750 Ben Davis Road

                         Contact:  Becky Ayres, Principal:  972-414-7480

A 29-year Air Force veteran, Johnson served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars.  He spent nearly seven years as a Prisoner of War, more than half of that time in solitary confinement.

Johnson represents portions of Dallas and Collin Counties.

Posted January 25, 2011

Air Force Airman Chase E. Newby graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Ejan Newby of Sachse and Matt Newby of Royse City. Newby graduated in 2010 from Sachse High School.

Posted January 25, 2011

Army Sgt. Chameleon E. Reed has arrived for duty at the Blaine Recruiting Station, Minn.  Reed, an army recruiter with 13 years of military service, is assigned to the Minneapolis Recruiting Battalion.

He is the son of Peggy Wallace and stepson of Arthur Wallace, both of Garland.

His wife, Theresa, is the daughter of Antonio and Margie Staples of Milwaukee, Wis.

Posted January 22, 2011

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jason L. Creel, son of Mike D. Creel, of Garland, recently completed Naval Nuclear Power Training Pipeline. 

During the course with Nuclear Power Training Unit, Ballston Spa, N. Y, Creel received instruction about nuclear theory, chemistry, physics, reactor operations, safety and security. Upon completion of the course, he qualified as a Naval nuclear operator.

Creel is a 2008 graduate of South Garland High School, and he joined the Navy in December 2008.

Posted January 19, 2011

Navy Seaman Recruit Royce V. Vu, son of Linh Tran of Rowlett and Thanh V. Vu, of Rowlett, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Vu completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Vu is a 2010 graduate of Sachse High School.

Posted January 19, 2011

Navy Seaman Recruit Christian P. Birdwell, son of Beverly C. Stacy of Garland, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Birdwell completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Birdwell is a 2010 graduate of Naaman Forest High School.

Posted January 13, 2011

Navy Airman Recruit Chastity N. Turner, daughter of Dawn M. Mauldin of Garland and Kirk Turner of Garland recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Turner completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

Posted January 6, 2011

Air Force Reserve Airman Devin R. Griffin graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Posted December 26, 2010

Air Force Airman Cody J. Malveaux graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Mary Malveaux of Arlington and nephew of Viola Duffey of Garland.

Posted December 26, 2010

Navy Seaman Apprentice Lesley D. Steelman, III, son of Amy J. Pena of Rowlett and Lesley D. Steelman, Jr. of Mesquite, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. 

During the eight-week program, Steelman completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. 

Steelman is a 2010 graduate of North Mesquite High School.