[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 10 (Wednesday, January 17, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E53]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING AND REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF PIPER, THE CHERRY CAPITAL AIRPORT 
                                  K-9

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 17, 2018

  Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, it's my honor today to acknowledge the life 
and service of the beloved K-9 of the Cherry Capital Airport, Piper. On 
January 3rd, Piper passed away in the arms of his handler and friend, 
Brian Edwards, after a yearlong battle against prostate cancer. His 
impact on the people of Michigan's First District will not soon be 
forgotten.
  Piper joined the team at the Cherry Capital Airport in 2015. Working 
with Edwards, the airport's director of operations, Piper worked to 
keep wildlife clear from the runways and facilities, becoming an 
instant local celebrity. Through social media and news outlets, he 
became famous nationwide. His goggles, vest, and boots became icons of 
the K-9's valuable role at the airport and important place in the 
community. Whether it was chasing down snow owls or posing with the 
Blue Angels, Piper was not only critical to ensuring the safety of the 
operations at the Cherry Capitol Airport, but also brought joy to any 
who had the opportunity to watch him in action.
  In 2016, Piper was named the Grand Marshal of the Cherry Royale 
Parade, the first time an animal has received this honor. He was also 
featured in Midwest Living Magazine when Traverse City was named the 
Best Midwest Town later the same year. Following Piper's passing, U.S. 
Coast Guard personnel lowered the flag flying over the Traverse City 
base and presented it to Edwards in honor of the K-9. A public memorial 
service for Piper will be held on January 20th at the City Opera House 
in Traverse City.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First District, I ask you to 
join me in honoring the life of the beloved airport K-9. Piper's 
service to the Cherry Capital Airport and his impact on the people of 
Michigan cannot be overstated. His friends and community can take pride 
in knowing that Northern Michigan is a better place thanks to his 
life's work.

                          ____________________