[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 217 (Thursday, December 16, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S9256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT JASON JENKINS

  Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize CMSgt Jason 
Jenkins for his dedicated service to the U.S. Air Force and the Senate 
as a Legislative Defense Fellow. Jason served as a vital part of my 
team in 2020. He was a trusted adviser on issues relating to the 
Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the 
Department of Homeland Security.
  Jason's effort and reliability distinguished him as a valuable member 
of my legislative team. In particular, Jason played an integral role in 
the recovery of Fort Smith native and World War II combat pilot Lt. 
Henry Donald Mitchell's remains, a mission 77 years in the making.
  Jason took his responsibility to bring his fellow airman home very 
seriously. His steadfast dedication and persistence were crucial to its 
success. He worked tirelessly to ensure the United States and Austrian 
officials, private landowners, and Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency 
leaders coordinated and engaged to achieve the right outcome. It would 
not have been possible without the efforts of Jason. He helped bring 
closure and resolution to Lt. Mitchell's community and loved ones, 
allowing them to close that chapter and find the comfort that been so 
elusive after his remains were buried in the Fayetteville National 
Cemetery.
  Jason also diligently worked to help secure resources for our 
servicemembers, their families, and Arkansans through his support of 
the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee and the successful 
passage of the fiscal year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. His 
passion to serve veterans and their families was demonstrated through 
his contributions to veteran legislation he advised on, including the 
John Scott Hannon Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019.
  I also want to thank Jason's wife, Jami, and his children, Mike and 
Skyla, for their support of Jason's continued service to the U.S. Air 
Force. As the son of an Air Force master sergeant, I understand service 
to the Armed Forces is a family affair and is impossible without their 
sacrifice and unconditional support. Jason's son Mike has followed in 
his dad's footsteps and is currently serving in the U.S. Air Force in 
London.
  A special highlight during Jason's time in my office was his 
promotion to chief master sergeant, a testament to his family, 
unlimited potential, and passion to serve others.
  Jason, thank you for your continued service to the U.S. Air Force and 
for your time working in my office. It was our privilege to have you as 
a part of our team. My office will always welcome you. I know that you 
will be an asset to whatever future endeavors you pursue, and I wish 
you and your family the best.

                          ____________________