[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 162 (Monday, September 20, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E990]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                HONORING THE LIFE OF SENATOR DAN SWECKER

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JAIME HERRERA BEUTLER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 20, 2021

  Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
celebrate the life of Senator Dan Swecker. I had the distinct privilege 
of serving with Dan in the Washington State Legislature and I remain 
incredibly grateful for his commitment to his country, his family and 
the communities of Southwest Washington.
  While many individuals in our region came to know Dan as a long-time 
elected official, his service to our nation began much earlier in life. 
A proud Army veteran, Dan celebrated his 21st birthday while on a 
combat tour in Vietnam, where he sustained injuries and for his 
sacrifice earned the distinguished Purple Heart.
  It would be incomplete to talk about Dan's public service without 
mentioning that which provided him consistent strength throughout his 
life, his Christian faith. Dan's faith led him to become a founding 
member of the Centralia Christian School Foundation. It was this faith 
that led to a reputation as a man who would stand by his morals, even 
when that was not the easy thing to do.
  In so many ways, Dan personified a model community member. He was a 
kind, and humble leader, fueled by a desire to serve his neighbors and 
support his community. Southwest Washington was lucky to have a leader 
like Dan as a part of our community.
  Dan will be dearly missed by his family and many friends, and my 
thoughts and prayers remain with his loved ones during this difficult 
time.

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