TRIBUTE TO DAVID BEDFORD

On 2026-08-03, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO DAVID BEDFORD" in the Senate.

TRIBUTE TO DAVID BEDFORD

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4406-S4407] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO DAVID BEDFORD Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, when it comes to the military, there is no such thing as working 9 to 5. You are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer David Bedford of Wilmer, he still has this mentality about serving others. A Mobile County native, David learned about military service from his father, who was a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient. In 1969, David followed his father's lead and enlisted to train as an Army pilot. After completing his training at Fort Rucker, David deployed to Vietnam in 1971, where he flew Huey helicopters more than 1,500 hours for resupply and transportation missions. He describes his most satisfying missions as those where he brought mail to troops on the frontlines, a small way to help put a [[Page S4407]] smile on their faces during a very dark time. David attributes his safe return home to the many prayers of his wife, mother, family, and friends. He had a special gift waiting for him when he came back to Alabama: a baby girl who was born while he was deployed overseas. David and his wife Theresa had two more daughters and raised their family in Mobile County while he finished his degree at the University of South Alabama. After graduating, David began working in the county school system, eventually becoming a counselor and helping students navigate life's challenges. David saw his job as more than just a 9 to 5, but as a way to invest in the lives of his students and help prepare them for the real world. Both David and Theresa have found a multitude of ways to partner together and serve the surrounding community. Through their involvement in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program--otherwise known as RSVP-- they frequently volunteer at community events and help seniors in the area prosper. David and Theresa are also members of the Christian Motorcycles Association, where they use their love of motorcycles to share their faith with other veterans. He also is a member of the Patriot Guard Riders, supporting Gold Star families and reminding them that they are not alone. David's generosity of his time has truly made a difference that spans far beyond our State. It is my honor to recognize David Bedford as the August Veteran of the Month. ____________________