[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 134 (Wednesday, July 29, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    PAYING TRIBUTE TO CAPTAIN STEPHANIE DUARTE, OHIO NATIONAL GUARD

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                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 29, 2020

  Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Captain Stephanie 
Duarte, Ohio National Guard, 237th Brigade Support Battalion. During 
the COVID-19 pandemic, many people in our communities rose to high 
occasion to support those in need--nurses and doctors turned into 
family for patients and their loved ones, neighbors turned into 
delivery services and PPE manufacturers, and National Guardsmen turned 
into hunger lifelines. Cpt. Duarte was one of those tireless servants.
  Cpt. Duarte serves as Officer in Charge at the Second Harvest Food 
Bank of North Central Ohio in my district. As COVID-19 surged and job 
security waned, many were forced to turn to local food banks for the 
first time. Understanding this harrowing position, Cpt. Duarte ran into 
action without hesitation. Among many notable efforts in this 
assignment, she helped to organize, coordinate, and implement Second 
Harvest's No Touch Drive Thru Mobile Pantry distribution. This process 
remains instrumental in efforts to feed the overwhelming demand of new 
families in need of assistance, and in an expedited means. Her 
strategic leadership was invaluable in developing and implementing such 
a monumental challenge. Because of her dedication, the people of 
Lorain, Erie, Huron and Crawford counties were given food and more 
importantly, hope.
  On August 7, 2020, Cpt. Duarte will depart from her duties at Second 
Harvest Food Bank as she moves onto a new assignment with the Ohio 
National Guard. Her unparalleled leadership and keen sense of intellect 
and duty will not be forgotten. Her system and capable guidance has 
ensured that the remaining guardsmen can continue the mission without 
hesitation or interruption. That is a sign of true leadership, mission 
above self. We wish her all the best as she continues to serve her 
country.
  Captain Stephanie Duarte, a hero during one of America's darkest 
hours. The people of Ohio's 9th Congressional District, Ohio, and 
America owe her a debt of gratitude. Godspeed, and I thank Cpt. Duarte 
for her enduring spirit and service.

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