[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 25 (Thursday, February 6, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H854]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CAPTAIN RYAN PHANEUF

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
New Hampshire (Ms. Kuster) for 5 minutes.
  Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Air 
Force Captain Ryan Phaneuf, who died last week serving his country in 
Afghanistan.
  His sacrifice is a solemn reminder that, after nearly 20 years of 
conflict, brave Americans regularly volunteer to take tremendous risks 
in order to keep us all safe. We are grateful for the service of our 
men and women in uniform.
  Ryan grew up dreaming of flying. His commitment to service began at a 
young age. While at Alvirne High School in Hudson, New Hampshire, he 
joined the Junior ROTC program and was considered a leader by his 
peers.
  After graduating from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he signed 
up for the United States Air Force. Ryan served his country with 
distinction and was a decorated pilot.
  By flying communications missions, Ryan risked his own life to 
facilitate effective battlefield communication in Afghanistan which, in 
turn, helped keep servicemembers on the ground safe.

  Tragically, Ryan's plane crashed in the snowy mountains of 
Afghanistan on January 27. Our thoughts and prayers are with his 
parents, Nancy and Donald, and his loving wife, Megan, during this 
tragic time.
  We will never forget Ryan's commitment to protecting our country and 
our men and women in uniform. By the grace of God, we pray that the boy 
who dreamed of flying will forever rest peacefully.


              Honoring the Life and Service of Katie Thyne

  Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Officer Katie Thyne, a Newport News police officer who died while 
serving her community on January 23, 2020.
  Katie spent her formative years in New Hampshire and attended Alvirne 
High School in Hudson, New Hampshire. Her commitment to service began 
early. While at Alvirne, Katie participated in the Junior ROTC program, 
where she gained a reputation for hard work and kindness.
  After high school, Katie enlisted in the Navy, serving her country 
with distinction and receiving commendation for her good conduct. Upon 
completing her service in the Navy, she continued to serve and joined 
the Newport News, Virginia police force.
  Tragically, on January 23, Katie was killed in the line of duty. Her 
sacrifice is a reminder of the tremendous risks police officers take 
every day when they put on their uniform and go to work keeping our 
communities safe. Because of the service and sacrifice of members of 
law enforcement, all our communities are better for it.
  Katie was irreplaceable, and she is dearly missed. She will always be 
remembered for her kind heart, her radiant and constant smile, and her 
love of family and friends.
  We will keep Katie, and her family, and the Hudson community in our 
thoughts and prayers.

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