Senate Resolution 823
By: Senators Harbison of the 15th, Orrock of the 36th, Payne of the 54th, Goodman of the
8th, Bearden of the 30th and others
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending Colonel Rick White for his extraordinary military service,
leadership, and continued dedication to veterans of the State of Georgia; and for other
purposes.
WHEREAS, Colonel Rick White, a native of Norcross, Georgia, honorably served the United
States of America for 31 years in the United States Army, exemplifying courage, integrity,
and steadfast devotion to duty; and
WHEREAS, Colonel White enlisted in the United States Army Airborne Infantry as a Private
in 1966 and, demonstrating exceptional leadership and determination at the remarkable age
of 19, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through Infantry Officer Candidate School
in 1967; and
WHEREAS, he deployed to the Republic of Vietnam for a total of 24 months of combat
service as a Rifle Platoon Leader and Reconnaissance Platoon Leader in the 4th Infantry
Division and as an Airborne Infantry Company Commander in the 173rd Airborne Brigade,
leading soldiers with distinction in some of the most challenging conditions of warfare; and
WHEREAS, over the course of his distinguished career, Colonel White commanded 13 units,
including two brigades, two battalions, six companies, and three platoons encompassing
Infantry, Special Forces, Aviation, and Recruiting units, reflecting his exceptional breadth
of leadership and operational expertise; and
WHEREAS, representing extraordinary bravery, skill, and commitment to excellence, he
earned the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, the Combat Infantry Badge, Senior Aviator Wings,
Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, and Master Parachutist Wings; and
WHEREAS, following his retirement from active duty in 1997, Colonel White was inducted
into the United States Army Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame at Fort Benning,
Georgia; and
WHEREAS, Colonel White continues to serve the veteran community as Board Chairman
of the Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame, ensuring that the sacrifices and achievements
of Georgia's military heroes are properly honored and preserved; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Rick White's life and career stand as a testament to patriotism,
sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to both nation and community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body
recognize and commend Colonel Rick White for his extraordinary military service,
distinguished leadership, and contributions to this state and nation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Colonel Rick
White.