[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 171 (Thursday, November 19, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN RECOGNITION OF CAPTAIN RHONDA R. POWELL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOHN LEWIS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 19, 2015

  Mr. LEWIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Captain Rhonda 
Powell, a daughter of Metro Atlanta, for her extraordinary service to 
the nation while serving in the United States Army for the past 23 
years.
  Since the beginning of her career, Captain Powell exhibited a 
steadfast commitment and dedication to serving her country. A graduate 
of the University of Memphis and George Washington University, Captain 
Powell has been stationed in Fort Gillem, Fort Bragg, and is currently 
a congressional legislative liaison to the Office of the Chief, Army 
Reserve for the U.S. Department of Defense at the Pentagon.
  While deployed in Doha, Qatar from 2006-2007, Captain Powell served 
as the detachment commander of the 312th Adjutant General Company in 
direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to Camp As Sayliyah. Captain 
Powell exhibited strong operational planning and intelligence analysis, 
and assumed duties as the officer in charge (OIC) of the Quick Reaction 
Force element on Camp As Sayliyah. She not only supported the health, 
welfare, morale, and development of her assigned soldiers, but also led 
her team in rapid responses to threats and other developments on or 
near the base.
  In her current role interfacing with the U.S. Congress, Captain 
Powell used her experience in military relations to establish the 
Soldiers and Leaders United Through Engagements (SALUTE) Program. This 
unique and timely initiative helps connect Members of Congress with 
issues and experiences facing American soldiers.
  Upon her retirement next month, Captain Powell plans to return to her 
roots in Atlanta, where her parents still reside near Howell Mill Road, 
and to begin a new chapter of her life. Mr. Speaker, I join others in 
congratulating and thanking Captain Powell, for her service, 
perseverance, hard work, and contributions to our nation. I and the 
other residents of Georgia's 5th Congressional District are happy and 
proud to welcome her home.

                          ____________________