S.C.R. No. 52
SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, A life made rich through meaningful service drew to
a close with the passing of U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.)
James D. Kniker of San Antonio on December 24, 2022, at the age of
85; and
WHEREAS, A native of Seguin, Jim Kniker was born on December
2, 1937, to Theodore Kniker and Alice Steger, and he grew up with
three brothers, Ted, Charles, and Kenn; he was president of his
graduating class at Seguin High School, and he continued his
education at The University of Texas at Austin, where he received a
math degree and worked with the Texas Longhorns under the
leadership of Coach Darrell Royal; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Kniker served for 23 years in the U.S. Air Force
as an aerial navigator; he was an electronic warfare officer on
Vietnam tours and on Operation Arc Light bombing missions; his
medals included the Distinguished Flying Cross for the exceptional
skill he demonstrated during a flight on the wave lead aircraft; on
a mission programmed against a high priority target belonging to a
hostile government, his knowledge and use of electronic
counter-measures aided in successfully defending the aircraft and
wave against hostile weapons systems and assured the completion of
the mission by all aircraft; and
WHEREAS, Following the Vietnam War, Mr. Kniker obtained a
master's degree in computer science from Oklahoma State University;
he later served in NATO Allied Forces Central Europe warfare
development, and he became a multinational military educator,
helping to enhance war-fighting readiness; moreover, he taught at
the Air War College and played a vital role in the integration of
computers in professional military education; he retired from the
air force at the rank of lieutenant colonel, and he subsequently
worked for a defense contractor in the private sector; and
WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Kniker enjoyed the love
and support of his wife, Christine, and he took great pride in his
children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; he was known for
his wonderful sense of humor, and he touched the lives of those
around him with his gentle and caring spirit; and
WHEREAS, Deeply dedicated to his family and his country, Jim
Kniker earned the lasting respect and admiration of all who were
privileged to know him; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby pay tribute to the life of U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel
(Ret.) James D. Kniker and extend heartfelt condolences to the
members of his family: to his wife, Christine Richman; to his
children, Alison, Chris and his wife, Catherine, Kimberly, Kathy,
Nanette, and Tommy; to his grandchildren, Desiree and her husband,
Derek, Caitlin, Hannah, Brian, and Rebecca; to his
great-grandchildren, Foster and Hattie; and to all others who mourn
his passing; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives and Senate adjourn this day, they do so in memory of
Jim Kniker.
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House
I hereby certify that S.C.R. No. 52 was adopted by the Senate
on May 16, 2023, by a rising vote.
______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
I hereby certify that S.C.R. No. 52 was adopted by the House
on May 25, 2023, by a rising vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House
Approved:
______________________________
Date
______________________________
Governor