Mark Alford: “today we honor a true American patriot, Master Sergeant Robert William Swank as our August Veteran of the Month. He was…”

“today we honor a true American patriot, Master Sergeant Robert William Swank as our August Veteran of the Month. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, and reared in Fort Scott. He answered the call to serve in 1967 and spent over 36 years in uniform, including time in Vietnam with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. Roger earned the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantry Badge, and numerous other awards. He continued his service in the Missouri Army National Guard for more than three decades and retired in 2004. Off the battlefield, he was just as committed, serving as a mail carrier, a community leader, and a devoted family man. He was married to his wife, Linda, for 35 years, and together they have raised seven daughters. Even in retirement, Roger remains a pillar of his community by volunteering with the Red Cross, serving his church for more than 40 years, and acting as assistant chaplain for the Disabled American Veterans organization. Madam Speaker, I thank Roger so much for his lifelong service to our country and our communities. He is an inspiration to us all.”