RECOGNIZING ROBERT LOUGH

HON. DEAN HELLER

OF NEVADA

IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE

March 17, 2016

Mr. HELLER: Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Robert Lough for his tireless effort in helping Nevada’s brave service members after they have returned home from the battlefield. Mr. Lough has been a volunteer with the Henderson Municipal Court’s Veterans Treatment Court program since its opening in 2011, going above and beyond to help fellow veterans in need.

The Henderson Municipal Court’s Veterans Treatment Court program is an invaluable resource to the southern Nevada community, providing our veterans with vital services that range from job placement to suicide prevention. This program assists our nation’s service members as they return home and readjust to life in their communities. The Court program includes representatives from the legal system and volunteers who work to rehabilitate veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, or drug or alcohol issues. Although there is no way to adequately thank the men and women who lay down their lives for our freedoms, the Henderson Municipal Court’s Veterans Treatment Court program acts as a one-stop solution for veterans who find themselves in a position of need. The state of Nevada if fortunate to have someone like Mr. Lough, who demonstrates unwavering loyalty to Nevada veterans, working in support of this important program.

Mr. Lough, a veteran himself, served in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1973. No words can properly thank him for his service to our country, but I offer my deepest gratitude for his sacrifices in defending our freedoms. In addition, he is a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America in Henderson and Boulder City Chapter 1076. In February, Mr. Lough was recognized as Veteran of the Month by Governor Brian Sandoval for his efforts in the Henderson Municipal Court’s Veterans Treatment Court program, an accolade that is well deserved. Mr. Lough is truly a role model to all, not only for his service to our country, but also for his ambitions in caring for our nation’s heroes. For the last five years, Mr. Lough has served as a mentor to struggling veterans who have lost their way. His charisma, caring character, and dedication to helping others are truly admirable.   

As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I know the struggles that our veterans face after returning to civilian life after service. Congress has a responsibility to honor these brave individuals and ensure they receive the quality care they have earned and deserve. I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and service members in Nevada and throughout the nation. I am grateful to have someone like Mr. Lough working as an ally to ensure the needs of our veterans are being met.

Today, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in recognizing Mr. Lough for his work at the Henderson Municipal Court’s Veterans Treatment Court, a program with a mission that is both noble and necessary. I am honored to acknowledge Mr. Lough for his efforts, and I wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.