Sen. Richardville welcomes distinguished veteran to the state Capitol for Memorial Day presentation
LANSING - Sen. Randy Richardville today welcomed distinguished veteran, Command Master Chief Joseph R. Diaz, to the state Capitol for the Michigan Senate Memorial Day presentation.
Diaz, a native of Carleton, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July 1966 and had a lengthy and honorable career, retiring just last year after four decades of service, said Richardville, R-Monroe.
"I am extremely honored to be joined by Master Chief Diaz for this special presentation today," Richardville said. "Memorial Day is a reminder to us all that our rights and freedoms were earned and protected by men and women who put country ahead of themselves. Master Chief Diaz is such an individual."
During his service, Diaz earned many awards, including the Meritorius Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy Achievement Medal (four awards), and Army Achievement Medal.
"Even with all of these accomplishments, I am most proud of my family's military background," said Diaz. "My family has served in almost every war and conflict our country has been involved in for the past 230 years - from the Revolution through the current war on terror."
Diaz served two tours in the naval mine force in Vietnam. During the remainder of his service, Diaz was stationed in the United States, Central America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia.
"Very few people actually get to do what they dreamed about as a small boy," said Diaz. "I dreamed about being a truck driver and a sailor. I got to spend my entire adult life doing just that, thanks to the United States Navy."
The Memorial Day presentation included a presentation of the flags, color guard and several speakers. In his address to the Senate, Diaz emphasized the importance of duty, honor and country. He carried an American flag in his pocket every day that he was deployed for the past 40 years.
The special service concluded with a recognition of all of the Michigan service men and women who died protecting the U.S. during the past year.
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Editor's note: A picture of Sen. Richardville and Command Master Chief Joseph R. Diaz is available on the Senate Majority Photowire, located at: http://www.MISenateGOP.com/photowire.asp?District=17
Posted: Thursday, May 24, 2007
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