[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 160 (Thursday, November 6, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2268]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




ACKNOWLEDGING MASTER SERGEANT DENNIS TAKESHITA'S 37 YEARS OF DEDICATED 
                 SERVICE IN DEFENSE OF OUR GREAT NATION

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. ED CASE

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 6, 2003

  Mr. CASE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my deepest mahalo and 
aloha to Master Sergeant Dennis Takeshita of Hawai`i as he retires from 
an illustrious career spanning 37 years of tireless and dedicated 
service to our country.
  Master Sergeant Takeshita's service to our great nation began in 
1966, when he received a commission in the United States Air Force 
Reserve upon graduation from the University of Hawai`i, and went on to 
serve on active duty until 1972. Shortly after his discharge, Master 
Sergeant Takeshita joined the Hawai`i Air National Guard and served for 
30 more years, earning numerous citations and awards for his 
professionalism and service.
  Throughout his long career, he served in the Vietnam Conflict, the 
Kosovo Campaign, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Noble Eagle, and 
Operation Joint Forge. He also served the people of Hawai`i both during 
and after Hurricane Iniki, which ravaged the Island of Kaua`i and parts 
of O`ahu, earning him the Humanitarian Service Medal.
  Of course, as with all great men, he owes a debt of gratitude to 
those who supported and nurtured him throughout his life. Master 
Sergeant Takeshita's father, Lawrence K. Takeshita, his mother, Frances 
M. Takeshita, his daughter Alison and son Brian have been there to lend 
their support. They are immensely proud of him and his successes during 
his military career.
  Serving one's country is a selfless act. I commend Master Sergeant 
Takeshita on his commitment to our country. His patriotism, loyalty and 
courageous leadership are the embodiment of the Air Force Core Values. 
And, of course, his island home is deeply proud of him.
  I close by saying to Master Sergeant Takeshita: aloha, on a well-
deserved retirement, and I wish you the very best on your future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________