Former President visits Houston Navy Reserve Center

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jerry Mullins, Navy Operational Support Center, Houston Public Affairs
Photo By SK2 (SCW) John Stone

Former President George H.W. Bush and wife Barbara visited the Joint Forces Reserve Center at Ellington Field in Houston recently to thank the Navy and Marine reservists for serving their country and to tour the Navy and Marine Corps wing of the center named in his honor.

“This is a great honor for me,” said the former commander in chief, as he viewed a new plaque designating the facility as the President George H.W. Bush Wing. “But it’s more of an honor to be here with all of you today.”

With the former First Lady by his side, Mr. Bush noted the important role of the Reserves and said it was encouraging to see the new generation of men and women now in service.

“Barb and I just can’t thank you all enough for what you do for this great nation of ours,” Bush said. “You are the backbone our country’s national defense.”

During his address, the former president reminisced about his career and said that serving in the U.S. Navy was his greatest source of pride. Bush flew combat missions in the South Pacific during World War II and, at age 18, was once the youngest aviator in the Navy.

“I’m no hero, but I’m very proud of my service and I wish I could do it all over again. I’m also proud of my family members who have carried on the tradition of military service, one of whom served at this base.”

The President’s son, George W. Bush, who served as the 43rd president of the United States, flew at Ellington Field during the Vietnam conflict as flight trainer with the Texas Air National Guard.

“I’m also proud to say that I have a grandson who has followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and is now an officer in the Navy Reserves,” Bush added.

George Prescott Bush, the oldest son of former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, is an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

During the visit, the former President also took time to recognize two local Reservists and congratulate them on their accomplishments.

Marine Gunnery Sergeant Coleman has over 21 years of service including three tours of duty in Iraq where he earned the Navy and Marine Corps Medal with Combat "V" and received a Purple Heart during the battle of Ramadi in 2004.

“Your valor and service are an inspiration to all of us,” Bush told Coleman. “Thank you for all you’ve done for our country.”

Bush also recognized Navy Legalman 1st Class Harrold Henck on his selection as Reserve Sailor of the Year for both the Houston Navy Operational Support Center and for the Navy Region Southeast Reserve Component Command.

“You’re a true example of the citizen sailor who gives freely of his time to serve our great nation,” said Bush to Henck. “This award really shows your dedication.”

The Bush Wing is one of many new buildings comprising the Joint Forces Reserve Center at Houston’s Ellington Field. The base currently includes a Navy Operational Support Center; the 1st Battalion, of the 23rd Marines, 4th Division; and the Army Reserve’s 75th Battle Command Training Division. The base will eventually be home to over 6,000 Reservists from all branches.

-USN-