August 3, 2020 - Issue: Vol. 166, No. 137 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 2nd Session

[Page S4665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING COLONEL RONALD DUDLEY RAY

  Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, Col. Ronald Dudley Ray, USMC, served as the 
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Guard/Reserve) during the Reagan 
administration and was a highly decorated Vietnam veteran who was an 
adviser to the South Vietnamese Marine Corps during the Tet Offensive 
and other campaigns. He was awarded two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star 
with combat V, and a Purple Heart. His gallantry under fire was 
exceeded only by his tenacious advocacy for his fellow veterans. He 
entered law school at the University of Louisville, where he graduated 
at the top of his class. Throughout his civilian career, he used his 
talent and professional skills to encourage, organize, and recognize 
veterans from the Vietnam era. He personally championed the Kentucky 
Vietnam Veterans' Memorial in Frankfort, and led the way in raising $1 
million for its design and construction. A great student of American 
history, he amassed a collection of over 10,000 books on the subject, 
and he shared his vast knowledge by writing and speaking about the 
history of the country he loved and served with such distinction. 
Colonel Ray, who passed away July 6, 2020, leaves a unique legacy of 
personal service to our Nation and dedication to its veterans that is 
worthy of this special distinction.

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