My State of the Union Guest: Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Dwyer

Last night I had the honor and privilege of having Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Dwyer, Garrison Commander of Hunter Army Airfield, join me as my guest at President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.

Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer is a Purple Heart recipient who has served in a variety of command and staff positions throughout his career. His operational deployments are many and they include four tours to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

On his third combat tour to Afghanistan in 2006, Lt. Col. Dwyer was injured by a Rocket Propelled Grenade resulting in the amputation of his left hand, removal of his left eye and other life-threatening injuries. Lt. Col. Dwyer not only recovered, but he returned to the Special Forces to continue serving his country.

I want to share a few moments from the incredible day.

First, we took a moment to talk about Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer's incredible story of patriotism and perseverance:

Next, Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer met fellow patriots and Purple Heart recipients, Representatives Dan Crenshaw (R-Tx.) and Brian Mast (R-Fl.). Representatives Crenshaw and Mast also both experienced life-changing injuries while serving their country in Afghanistan.

Representative Dan Crenshaw (R-Tx.), Representative Buddy Carter, Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Dwyer

Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer with Representative Brian Mast (R-Fl.)

Next, we stopped by House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy's office.

Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer, Congressman Carter

It was an extremely special time when we visited Congressman Mike Waltz (R-Fl.). Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer and Rep. Waltz served our nation at the same time and went through Special Forces training together. It was an incredible honor to be with these great American heroes and to hear the stories they shared.

Congressman Michael Waltz, Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer, Rep. Carter

Finally, we took a quick moment so I could share what I believe to be the best view in Washington from the Speaker's Balcony in the U.S. Capitol before heading to the House Chamber for President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.

Rep. Carter and Lieutenant Colonel Dwyer on the Speaker's Balcony in the United States Capitol

The theme of President Trump's speech last night was "Choosing Greatness." Thank you to my friend who joined me yesterday and to all the brave servicemembers. You all are the best example of those who truly make America great.

- Buddy