[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 48 (Thursday, March 17, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S1251]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO DAN CNOSSEN

  Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a truly 
incredible and historic individual.
  Dan Cnossen is a textbook definition of honor and bravery. His story 
began when he was accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy after high 
school. In 2003, he completed the grueling process. Over the course of 
the next 6 years, Dan was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan where he 
rose in rank to becoming the officer in charge of an 18-man SEAL 
platoon. In 2009, late on a night mission in the mountains, Dan stepped 
on an improvised explosive device and lost both of his legs. Later, he 
was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with Valor. Over the next 
2 years, Dan fought for his life. He endured 40 different surgeries, 
while simultaneously reintroducing himself into civilian life--neither 
an easy task on their own, but coupled together creates one 
extraordinary obstacle.
  While Dan was in rehab, though, he was introduced to the sport of 
cross-country skiing and biathlon. Dan pushed himself and was dedicated 
to earning a spot in the 2014 U.S. Paralympic Team, leading to an 
incredible--and ongoing--career. In 2018, Dan outstandingly won a gold 
medal, four silvers, and one bronze. In addition to his 2018 medals, he 
also earned the honor of Best Male Athlete of the Games. Most recently, 
at the 2022 Winter Paralympic Games, Dan made his country proud once 
again by winning gold in Cross Country Skiing Mixed Relay.
  I think his motto ``keep going, keep covering ground'' beautifully 
sums up his journey so far and should serve as an inspiration for those 
who get to hear his story. His Paralympic career has been remarkable to 
see, and it is with great pride that I get to share Kansas as a home to 
such an outstanding individual and athlete. I ask my colleagues now to 
join me in recognizing Dan and his unbelievable story.

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