[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 182 (Tuesday, December 15, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1792]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MAJOR MICHAEL POCHE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE CHABOT

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 15, 2015

  Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Major Michael Poche 
of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and 
service to our Nation. Major Poche and his wife Stephanie will be 
moving on from his present assignment as an Army Congressional Liaison 
for the Office of the Secretary of Defense to serve as an officer in 
the Louisiana National Guard.
  Army Congressional Liaison officers provide an invaluable service to 
both the military and Congress. They assist Members and staff in 
understanding the Army's policies, actions, operations, and 
requirements. Their first-hand knowledge of military needs, culture, 
and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. Prior 
to serving as a Congressional Liaison, Mike served as a Military 
Congressional Fellow. During that year he also earned a Masters in 
Legislative Affairs from the George Washington University.
  A native of Monroe, Louisiana, Mike first joined the Louisiana 
National Guard in 1996 and subsequently earned his commission through 
the University of Louisiana at Monroe ROTC in 2004. During his 19-year 
Army career, Mike has served in numerous tactical leadership and staff 
assignments as an Armor and Cavalry Officer. As a platoon leader and 
troop commander, Mike commanded troops in Iraq over three separate 
combat tours totaling 35 months.
  His great work has not gone unnoticed. During Major Poche's 
distinguished service to this nation, he has earned awards and 
decorations including: three Bronze Star Medals, the Meritorious 
Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and four Army Achievement 
Medals.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service of 
Major Poche, his wife Stephanie, and their three children: Kaley, Mari 
Katherine, and Evan. I wish them the best as they continue to serve our 
great nation and proceed to the next chapter in their remarkable 
careers.

                          ____________________