RECOGNIZING COLONEL WILLIAM "BILL" DALE BAUER, USMC, (RET.), WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

On 2026-10-13, Representative Pete Sessions (R-TX-17) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING COLONEL WILLIAM "BILL" DALE BAUER, USMC, (RET.), WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION" in the House.

RECOGNIZING COLONEL WILLIAM "BILL" DALE BAUER, USMC, (RET.), WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 160 (Tuesday, October 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 160 (Tuesday, October 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1078-E1079] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING COLONEL WILLIAM ``BILL'' DALE BAUER, USMC, (RET.), WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION ______ HON. PETE SESSIONS of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to present Colonel William ``Bill'' Dale Bauer of Waco, Texas, with a 2026 Congressional Veteran Commendation. Bill's distinguished military career in the United States Marine Corps, a continued service to veterans, his community and lifelong commitment to our nation exemplify the character, leadership, and dedication worthy of this recognition. Born in Pensacola, Florida, in 1936, Bill grew up in a proud military family. Bill's father, Lieutenant Colonel Harold W. Bauer, a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a World War II Medal of Honor recipient, served as a lifelong inspiration. Bill followed in his father's footsteps, receiving a presidential appointment to the Naval Academy and graduating with the Class of 1958. Bill was commissioned as a Marine officer and earned his wings as a Marine fighter pilot in 1960, beginning a distinguished 27-year career that culminated in his attaining the rank of Colonel. Bill's military service included some of the most demanding assignments of his generation. During the Vietnam War, Bill flew 110 combat missions in the F-4 Phantom from 1967 to 1968. Bill served as an Air Liaison Officer to the 1st Marine Regiment during the Battle of HuI in the TIt Offensive and later at Khe Sanh. Throughout his career, Bill held significant leadership positions, including commanding Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101 in Yuma, Arizona, Marine Aircraft Group 15 in Japan, and the Marine Aviation Detachment at the Naval Air Test Center in Patuxent River, Maryland. Bill continued to distinguish himself through advanced military education and professional achievement. Bill attended the Navy Test Pilot School in 1970 and received the Empire Test Pilot School Award for the top final exercise. Bill later attended the Naval War College, where he earned the Stephen B. Luce Award for outstanding performance. Bill's extraordinary military service was recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal with eight awards, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation with two awards, and other unit and service commendations. Bill retired from the Marine Corps in 1985 after 27 years of service. Bill's commitment to service did not end with his military retirement. Bill went on to a successful second career as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, ultimately serving as a First Vice President and Branch Manager before retiring in 2014. In this role, Bill found fulfillment in helping others achieve financial security, continuing the leadership and service that had defined his military career. Even at the age of 90, Bill continues to serve his country and community. Bill has volunteered on the Northern Service Academy Board for Congressman Pete Sessions, helping evaluate and select young men and [[Page E1079]] women who aspire to serve and protect our nation. Bill's continued involvement demonstrates that, although he may be retired from active military service, he remains deeply committed to preparing the next generation of Americans for lives of service. Bill has also devoted decades to his local community and fellow veterans. Bill served as President of the Waco Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America and helped strengthen the organization's presence by establishing a consistent meeting location at the Brazos Club. Bill has served as President of the Westside Waco Rotary Club, as a board member of the American Red Cross, and on the Board of Directors of Ridgewood Country Club. Bill's commitment to service has also been reflected through his longtime involvement in the Episcopal Church, where he served in numerous leadership and volunteer roles. Bill's life is ultimately defined not simply by the honors he has received, but by the way he has continued to lead, mentor, and serve others. From his distinguished service as a Marine aviator and combat veteran to his ongoing work supporting veterans, his community, and future generations of military leaders, Bill has demonstrated an unwavering sense of duty and devotion to country. It is this extraordinary record of military service, leadership, volunteerism, and continued commitment to his fellow Americans that I proudly commend Colonel William ``Bill'' Dale Bauer of Texas to his friends, family, community, and country. It is my honor to recognize him with the 2026 Congressional Veteran Commendation from the 17th Congressional District of Texas. ____________________