[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 21, 2019)]
[House]
[Page H4018]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN MEMORY OF TROOPER DONALD C. BRACKETT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Fitzpatrick) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise 
today to honor the life and memory of Trooper Donald C. Brackett, a 
dedicated law enforcement professional with the Pennsylvania State 
Police. Trooper Brackett passed away while on duty Saturday morning at 
the age of 58.
  Our Nation just recognized National Police Week, a time to reflect 
upon and honor the sacrifices made by the men and women in law 
enforcement. Trooper Brackett was no exception.
  A resident of Bensalem, Trooper Brackett served nearly 18 years in 
the United States Marine Corps and enlisted in the Pennsylvania State 
Police in October of 2001. He was most recently assigned to the patrol 
section of Troop T, King of Prussia, and was previously assigned to 
Troop K, Media, and Troop M in Trevose throughout his distinguished 
career.
  Madam Speaker, Trooper Brackett lived his life in service to our 
Nation and to our community. He is truly an American hero, and I send 
my deepest condolences to his wife, Marta, and his children, Gabriella 
and Brianna.
  Trooper Brackett lived his entire life in service to our community. 
He set the example for our entire Nation to follow.


                   In Recognition of Paul Steklenski

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a native of 
Perkasie in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who is promoting animal welfare 
through the nonprofit organization he established 4 years ago.
  Paul Steklenski, an Army veteran and a network engineer, founded 
Flying Fur Animal Rescue in 2015. Flying his 1970 Beechcraft single-
engine airplane, Paul transports shelter animals, mostly dogs, at risk 
of being euthanized to rescue groups along the East Coast. To date, 
Paul estimates he has saved the lives of over 1,300 animals in need.
  Paul credits Rick Witt, who helps manage the operations at Doylestown 
Airport, for the success of this organization. Rick allows Paul to use 
the original aircraft he used to transport the animals.
  Madam Speaker, I applaud the work of Flying Fur Animal Rescue and 
thank Paul for his work. I encourage all of us to follow his lead of 
being a voice for the voiceless.

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