[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 177 (Tuesday, December 8, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1731]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING MAJOR BRYAN WHITTIER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 8, 2015

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Major Bryan 
Whittier of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to 
duty and service to the Nation. After nearly four years of faithful 
service in the Nation's capital, Major Whittier will transition from 
his present assignment as an Army Liaison in the Office of the Chief 
Legislative Liaison to the Army's 2nd Scout Cavalry Regiment in 
Vilseck, Germany.
  Major Whittier has demonstrated the invaluable service that Army 
Congressional Liaisons provide to the Congress. He enabled countless 
Members and staff to develop better understandings of Army policies, 
operations, and requirements. His first-hand knowledge of military 
needs, culture, and tradition was a tremendous benefit to Congressional 
offices. Prior to service as a Liaison, Major Whittier was assigned to 
my office as a Military Fellow where he quickly became an indispensable 
asset to our team. His performance was superb and he earned my utmost 
respect during his tenure on my staff. Major Whittier also completed a 
Master's Degree from George Washington University during his time here, 
demonstrating his commitment as a Warrior and a Scholar.
  Major Whittier is a native of Scottsdale, Arizona; he commissioned 
through Norwich University ROTC in 2003. During his twelve year active 
duty Army career, he has excelled in numerous leadership and staff 
assignments as an Officer and UH-60 Blackhawk aviator. Major Whittier 
served as a Rear Detachment Commander and as an Assault Company 
Commander for 36 months in the 101st Airborne Division at Ft. Campbell, 
KY. From there, he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom 
for twelve months. Prior to command, Major Whittier successfully 
executed duties as a Battalion Operations Officer, Battalion Adjutant, 
Company Executive Officer, and Platoon Leader, during which time he 
conducted a twelve month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi 
Freedom.
  His dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Major Whittier 
was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air 
Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on 
Terrorism Service Medal, the NATO Medal, and numerous others. He has 
earned the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, Army Senior 
Aviator Badge, Combat Action Badge and the Army Staff Badge.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to recognize the selfless 
service of Major Bryan Whittier and the support and dedication of his 
wife Shelley and their two children, Bryley and William. I wish them 
the very best as they continue their service to our great nation and 
proceed to the next chapter in their lives.

                          ____________________