[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 208 (Wednesday, December 9, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MATTHEW J. BUNKER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BRYAN STEIL

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 9, 2020

  Mr. STEIL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and 
service of Matthew J. Bunker. Matthew grew up in Delavan, Wisconsin and 
attended Delavan Christian School and Faith Christian School before 
receiving an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West 
Point.
  From an early age, Matthew knew that he wanted to serve America by 
joining the military. Matthew's dedication and talents were recognized 
when my predecessor, Congressman Paul Ryan, awarded Matthew an 
appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. After 
graduating from West Point, Matthew served with the Army's 1st Cavalry 
as a Recon Scout at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Washington.
  After his honorable service in the Army, Matthew pursued his lifelong 
dream of becoming an explorer. Matthew loved the outdoors and 
adventure. He scaled mountains in the Pacific Northwest, hiked, 
mountain biked, and photographed those moments along the way.
  In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, Matthew was a man of strong 
faith and moral conviction. Wherever his adventures took him, he kept 
his family and God in mind. His father said that Matthew only loved two 
things above the outdoors: his family and God.
  Matthew Bunker passed away Friday, June 26, 2020 while descending 
Mount Rainier on a backcountry hike and ski descent. He was 28 years 
old. He was known for being smart, caring, having a great sense of 
humor, and for being a talented photographer, painter, and writer.
  My prayers are with his family, especially his mother Carolyn and his 
father Joe, who is a member of the First Congressional District's 
Service Academy Nomination Board. May we remember Matthew and his 
service to our country and to others. May his adventurous spirit, 
strong faith, and moral conviction be an inspiration to us all.

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