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[Page H854]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CAPTAIN RYAN PHANEUF
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from
New Hampshire (Ms. Kuster) for 5 minutes.
Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Air
Force Captain Ryan Phaneuf, who died last week serving his country in
Afghanistan.
His sacrifice is a solemn reminder that, after nearly 20 years of
conflict, brave Americans regularly volunteer to take tremendous risks
in order to keep us all safe. We are grateful for the service of our
men and women in uniform.
Ryan grew up dreaming of flying. His commitment to service began at a
young age. While at Alvirne High School in Hudson, New Hampshire, he
joined the Junior ROTC program and was considered a leader by his
peers.
After graduating from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he signed
up for the United States Air Force. Ryan served his country with
distinction and was a decorated pilot.
By flying communications missions, Ryan risked his own life to
facilitate effective battlefield communication in Afghanistan which, in
turn, helped keep servicemembers on the ground safe.
Tragically, Ryan's plane crashed in the snowy mountains of
Afghanistan on January 27. Our thoughts and prayers are with his
parents, Nancy and Donald, and his loving wife, Megan, during this
tragic time.
We will never forget Ryan's commitment to protecting our country and
our men and women in uniform. By the grace of God, we pray that the boy
who dreamed of flying will forever rest peacefully.
Honoring the Life and Service of Katie Thyne
Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor
Officer Katie Thyne, a Newport News police officer who died while
serving her community on January 23, 2020.
Katie spent her formative years in New Hampshire and attended Alvirne
High School in Hudson, New Hampshire. Her commitment to service began
early. While at Alvirne, Katie participated in the Junior ROTC program,
where she gained a reputation for hard work and kindness.
After high school, Katie enlisted in the Navy, serving her country
with distinction and receiving commendation for her good conduct. Upon
completing her service in the Navy, she continued to serve and joined
the Newport News, Virginia police force.
Tragically, on January 23, Katie was killed in the line of duty. Her
sacrifice is a reminder of the tremendous risks police officers take
every day when they put on their uniform and go to work keeping our
communities safe. Because of the service and sacrifice of members of
law enforcement, all our communities are better for it.
Katie was irreplaceable, and she is dearly missed. She will always be
remembered for her kind heart, her radiant and constant smile, and her
love of family and friends.
We will keep Katie, and her family, and the Hudson community in our
thoughts and prayers.
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