The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING SENIOR MASTER SERGEANT PAT NUGENT, RECIPIENT OF TEXAS'
THIRD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2021 CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION
______
HON. VAN TAYLOR
of texas
in the house of representatives
Thursday, October 28, 2021
Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, it is my privilege to honor fifteen distinguished military veterans from Texas' Third Congressional District who answered the call to serve their Nation honorably, both in uniform and following their return to civilian life. The recipients of the 2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation exemplify the time-honored qualities of patriotism, service before self, and bold leadership. Following their time in service, their efforts in our community have earned these fine individuals recognition as the recipients of this prestigious commendation. Their stories of sacrifice will encourage future generations to pursue a life dedicated to the very values we cherish as Americans: faith, freedom, and democracy. One such hero is Senior Master Sergeant Patrick Nugent of Allen, Texas.
Upon joining the U.S. Air Force, Pat Nugent, trained as a parachute rigger and was stationed at England Air Force Base prior to being transferred to RAF Mildenhall, England where he was assigned to an Aerial Port squadron supporting aerial delivery parachute systems throughout the European Theater. During this time, Nugent developed a lifelong passion for photography and was eventually assigned to cover the world-renowned Air Force Thunderbirds. Due to his training as a photojournalist at Syracuse University, Pat would have the opportunity to cover a variety of historical events including the Rhein-Mein Air Base bombing and the return of hostages, Father Martin Jenco and David Jacobson, as well as those kidnapped from the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro. Pat also covered Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Provide Hope, and the Panama invasion, and was involved in efforts to introduce digital photography to the Department of Defense.
During his 23 years of military service, Sergeant Nugent earned a multitude of awards including the National Defense Service Medal with 1 device, the Air Force Training Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with 4 devices, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 6 devices, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 3 devices, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal to name just a few.
Following his retirement from the military, Nugent held government account management positions with Eastman Kodak and Nikon. As an active and lifetime member of Vietnam Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans, the Seidel Dallas Chapter of the Air Force Association, the USAF Combat Camera Association, and the Collin County Veterans Coalition, Pat can often be seen behind the lens capturing our veterans and military which earned him the Air Force Association's ``Medal of Freedom.''
Mr. Nugent is a tremendous example of using one's gift in service to their nation. Pat and his wife, Carol, look forward to celebrating fifty years of marriage this year and are the proud parents to two adult children, and five grandchildren.
Today a grateful Nation thanks Senior Master Sergeant Nugent for his exceptional service and congratulates him on this recognition. May his steadfast example of leadership inspire others to live a life of service to a cause greater than themselves. It is my extreme honor to award him the 2021 Congressional Veteran Commendation for the Third District of Texas.
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 190
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