[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 156 (Thursday, September 20, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1269-E1270]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING MICHAEL J. DECKER, KINGSTON VETERANS ASSOCIATION'S VETERAN OF 
                                THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN J. FASO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 20, 2018

  Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I 
rise today to recognize and honor Michael J. Decker for being 
designated as the Kingston Veterans Association's Veteran of the Year 
for 2018. A native of Kingston, New York, Mr. Decker has bravely served 
our country in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves since 1993.

[[Page E1270]]

  I admire the great commitment of those distinct individuals who have 
tirelessly devoted themselves to their country and community. Mr. 
Decker's service as a Marine has spanned the globe, having completed 
several periods of active duty in countries including Iraq, 
Afghanistan, Jordan, and Ghana. His service to the greater Kingston 
community, however, is unparalleled.
  Through his active involvement with the Boy Scouts, the Ulster 
Detachment Marine Corps League, the Toys for Tots program, the Kingston 
Veterans Association, the Kingston American Little League, and as a 
devout parishioner of Saint Colman's Roman Catholic Church and member 
of their Buildings and Grounds Committee, Mr. Decker is an important 
role model for our communities, our veterans, and the next generation 
of soldiers.
  Being named the Veteran of the Year is a true testament to Mr. 
Decker's continued legacy of patriotism and steadfast commitment to 
improving the lives of his friends, neighbors, and fellow veterans. I 
can think of no one more deserving of this honor. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Decker on receiving 
this award. His lifetime of hard work and dedicated service to the 
United States is inspirational, and I am grateful for his contributions 
to New York State.

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