Jefferson City — State Sen. Wayne Wallingford, R-Cape Girardeau, today welcomed the Missouri National Guard Association’s announcement of his selection for the Charles Dick Medal of Merit from the National Guard Association of the United States.
“I am humbly honored to receive this award,” said Sen. Wallingford. “Both the United States and Missouri associations have done tremendous jobs advocating for the men and women in the Guard, and I am grateful for their appreciation and commitment.”
Established in 1988, the Charles Dick Medal of Merit is awarded to members of Congress and state legislatures and governors who have provided “exceptionally strong support” to, and left a “lasting effect on the future” of the National Guard.
Joining fellow recipients United States Representatives Tulsi Gabbard, Andy Barr, Walter Jones and Kentucky State Representative Tim Moore, Sen. Wallingford was recognized for his efforts in the Missouri Legislature, such as introducing legislation to provide tax deductions for Missouri residents who are members of the National Guard, and setting an example of leadership and advocacy for other legislators across the country.
A veteran who served in the United States Air Force and engaged in myriad combat missions in North and South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, and six deployments during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the decorated senator will formally receive the prestigious award on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, at the Annual National Guard Birthday Ball, which will celebrate the 381st anniversary of the National Guard’s founding.