At this evening’s City Council Meeting, well-decorated U.S. Army combat veteran Dan Kleiss was honored and recognized as our 16th Rowlett Vet. Mr. Kleiss was also gifted a beautiful hand-stitched quilt from the Quilts of Valor organization (https://www.qovf.org/).
Says Staff Sgt. Kleiss:
“On September 11, 2009, I deployed to Iraq in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom. I ran recovery missions in combat situations and, as a
member of the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, took part
in the Last Patrol. My second deployment took place in 2014-2015 where I
ran operations for all convoys, while also controlling two teams, one
in North Egypt and one in South. While home, I routinely held holiday
dinners with an open door policy to any Soldiers who weren’t able to
make it home to be with their families. During the summer months, I
organized and executed lake cleanups on Lake Belton/Stillhouse Hollow
Lake as acts of Community Service for my Platoon.
During my time in service, I earned 3 Army Accommodation Medals, 5 Army Achievement Medals, 2 Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons, 1 Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal, 1 Iraq Campaign Medal with 1 Campaign Star, 2 Overseas Service Ribbons, 1 Multi-National Force and Observers Ribbon, 1 Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, 3 Army Good Conduct Medals, 1 National Defense Medal, 1 Army Service Ribbon, 1 Mechanics Badge, 1 Drivers Badge, and 1 Expert Marksmanship Badge.”
Mayor Dana-Bashian, along with the Veterans Resource and Outreach Center and in collaboration with Third Watch Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club (LE MC) – a brotherhood of police, firefighters and military, both current and honorably retired, who share the common goal of assisting and recognizing veterans – instituted the Rowlett Veterans Recognition Program to show appreciation to those members in our community who have dedicated their time in service to our nation. This program also helps bring awareness to veterans’ issues – what is being done in our community and what is still needed.
We hope you will join us as we welcome Dan Kleiss into the ranks of our Rowlett Vets!
Information and photos courtesy of City of Rowlett
