[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 22, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E880]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  CONGRATULATING COLONEL DENNIS L. VIA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHET EDWARDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 21, 2002

  Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a great Army officer 
and soldier, Colonel Dennis L. Via, and to thank him for his 
contributions to the United States Army and to our country. On 
Thursday, June 13, Colonel Via will relinquish command of the 3rd 
Signal Brigade at Fort Hood, Texas for assignment to the Department of 
the Army's Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Programs, here in 
Washington, DC.
  Colonel Via began his career in 1980, graduating from Virginia State 
University as a Distinguished Military Graduate and earning a 
commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Signal corps. He 
commanded troops as a Signal Platoon Leader, Company Commander, and 
Battalion Commander before taking command of the 3rd Signal Brigade. 
Dennis has also served in staff positions from battalion level to the 
Department of the Army at numerous posts in the United States and 
Europe, and along the way found time to earn a Master's Degree at 
Boston University.
  Dennis Via is a consummate professional whose performance personifies 
those traits of courage, competency and commitment that our nation 
expects and demands from its military leaders. It is with both regret 
and pride that we wish him Godspeed and good luck as he leaves Fort 
Hood for his new assignment.
  It is important to note that every accolade to Dennis must also be 
considered a tribute to his family, his wife Linda and their two sons, 
Brian and Bradley. As a wife and mother, Linda has been a true partner 
in all of is accomplishments.
  Dennis' career has reflected his deep commitment to our nation, and 
has been characterized by dedicated service, a profound respect for our 
soldiers and their families, and an absolute commitment to excellence. 
I ask Members to join me in offering our heartfelt appreciation for a 
job well done and best wishes for continued success to an outstanding 
soldier and a good friend--Colonel Dennis L. Via.

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