Walberg Honors Hillsdale County Veteran

On Friday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognized Patrick Knight of Hillsdale as the Veteran of the Month for July. The Congressman presented Patrick with the Congressional Record containing his remarks honoring Patrick's service and dedication to our country. 

Patrick Knight served in the United States Navy as a Search and Rescue Helicopter Crewman from 1966 to 1970. During his time in active duty, Patrick served with Helicopter Combat Support Squadron One (HC-1) at NAS Imperial Beach in California and overseas with Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Seven (HC-7), the Navy’s premier Combat Search and Rescue unit that is also known as the “Sea Devils.” While with HC-7, he assisted in rescuing pilots that had been shot down in Vietnam and the surrounding waters, helping his squadron to rescue approximately 150 pilots.

Patrick was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Combat Search and Rescue Air Wings. In 1971, the Sea Devils were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation by President Richard Nixon for their extraordinary heroism while performing rescue operations under adverse conditions.

Following his time in the military, Patrick spent 32 years as a member of the Riverview Police Force and recently retired as Chief of Police. Patrick is also a member of the VFW Post 1136 in Wyandotte and serves on the Board for the Emergency Telephone Services for Hillsdale County and the Board of the Hillsdale Senior Center.

"I am honored to recognize Patrick Knight whose life of service reflects the very best of our nation as the Veteran of the Month for July," said Rep. Walberg. "From his courageous work as a Sea Devil helping to save the lives of downed pilots, to his decades of service protecting his community in the Riverview Police Force, Patrick has demonstrated unwavering dedication, courage, and sacrifice. Patrick serves as an inspiration to us all." 

You can access pictures of the presentation here. 

Background

Congressman Walberg's office is accepting submissions for the Veteran of the Month program, an initiative to honor the exemplary contributions of veterans in Michigan's 5th Congressional District. Each month, Congressman Walberg will recognize one outstanding veteran, celebrating their commitment to serving our community and their exceptional service in the military. 

To nominate a deserving veteran in Michigan's 5th District for this honor, please complete the nomination form here.