[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 203 (Tuesday, November 23, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1270]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF NORTHEAST WISCONSIN'S 2021 VETERAN OF THE YEAR, RYAN 
                                LONERGAN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MIKE GALLAGHER

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 23, 2021

  Mr. GALLAGHER. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Northeast 
Wisconsin's 2021 Veteran of the Year, Ryan Lonergan. His service on and 
off the battlefield, his dedication to fellow veterans, and his 
devotion to Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District makes him well-
deserving of this recognition.
  The Northeast Wisconsin Veteran of the Year is chosen annually by a 
selection committee consisting of members from the veteran and civilian 
community. It recognizes veterans in Northeast Wisconsin who continue 
to demonstrate service, excellence, and dedication in all that they do.
  A native of Southeastern Wisconsin, Ryan served 6 years in the Army 
National Guard including a 2009 deployment to Iraq. During Ryan's 
service he received numerous medals and achievements, including but not 
limited to, the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, 
National Defense Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, 
and Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star.
  Ryan's service to his fellow veterans and dedication to our country 
did not stop upon returning home. Ryan has been a tireless advocate and 
ally for veterans in the Fox Valley and Northeast Wisconsin. Every day 
he helps veterans transition to civilian life by providing crucial job 
and career preparation. Two incredible examples of Ryan's continued 
support of the veteran community include working with the Outagamie 
County Veteran Service Officer to find a home for a World War II 
veteran's Purple Heart and connecting the next of kin of a local Navy 
Seal with his ribbons and medals which included a Silver Star with 
Valor and Navy Seal Trident.
  Ryan has remained dedicated to creating and cultivating a strong 
veteran community in the Fox Valley. He plays a key role in organizing 
an annual archery event and has partnered with numerous local 
businesses to coordinate extraordinary experiences for our veterans. 
From his help with Wheels for Warriors to his Fragout Podcast, Ryan 
continues to advocate for his fellow veterans.
  Madam Speaker, I once again congratulate Ryan Lonergan for his 
service to Northeast Wisconsin and the veteran community, and on being 
the 2021 Northeast Wisconsin Veteran of the Year. Northeast Wisconsin 
can be proud of the many great veterans who call the 8th Congressional 
District home, and I urge all colleagues to join me in recognizing 
these outstanding men and women.

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