[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 19 (Monday, February 6, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E144]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GREG DASH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 6, 2012

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my 
constituent, Major Greg Dash, for his distinguished service to our 
country as a member of the United States Air Force.
  Major Dash, known to his fellow airmen as ``Fez,'' was raised in 
Gaithersburg, Maryland. After graduating from Wootton High School, he 
received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, where 
he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and graduated on the 
Commandant's List. He was commissioned in May 1998. After having served 
his country for 18 years, Major Dash will be medically retired this 
month.
  Throughout his service in the Air Force, Dash excelled in both his 
tactical judgment and outstanding leadership capabilities. As an Air 
Battle Manager, he qualified in three separate weapons systems and was 
selected for graduation from the distinguished United States Weapons 
School. Major Dash earned a number of awards and decorations, including 
the 2012 Air Traffic Control Association Earl F. Ward Medallion.
  Over the course of his career, Major Dash had several combat 
deployments. During his last deployment in Afghanistan, he collapsed 
and was medically evacuated from the country. Later, he was diagnosed 
with a rare and highly lethal form of cancer. But he was undeterred.
  After a 1\1/2\-year-long battle with cancer, Major Dash has 
heroically defeated the disease with the same spirit and determination 
he brought to his years of military service. Although his cancer has 
cut short his Air Force career, his talents, personal qualities, record 
and achievements bode well for great accomplishments in the future. I 
know that he will continue to make our Nation proud.
  Our country owes Major Dash a debt of gratitude for his service, 
impeccable character and model of selfless leadership. I urge my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing him and in thanking him for his 
service and sacrifice.

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