[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 73 (Tuesday, May 3, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E448-E449]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING DAVID McWILLIAM RASER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KAY GRANGER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 3, 2022

  Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor David McWilliam 
Raser, a hardworking and dedicated staff member of the House 
Appropriations Committee, who suddenly passed away on February 5th of 
this year.
  Son of David and Denise Raser, Dave was born in Long Island, New York 
on May 3, 1997. Just a few years later, the Rasers added another member 
to the family, Emily, who would become Dave's best friend. In the early 
2000s, the family headed for warmer weather, moving from New York to 
Naples, Florida.
  Dave grew to become an accomplished young man in his academic, 
athletic, and service endeavors. He spent much of his time outdoors, 
whether fishing, hiking, or playing team sports. In fact, Dave and his 
rugby team--the Naples Bears--went on to win State in 2014. He 
continued his pursuit of fitness into his professional life, running a 
marathon and surpassing his goal of running 1,000 miles in 2021.
  In high school, he joined the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, 
where he rose to the rank of Battalion Commander. Because of his 
leadership and achievements, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart nominated 
Dave to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  As fate would have it, Dave instead attended Louisiana State 
University, where he would receive a Bachelor of Arts in Political 
Science, specializing in American government and politics. Before 
graduating, Dave served as a summer intern for Congressman Thomas 
Rooney, where he learned the legislative process firsthand, and shortly 
after receiving his diploma in 2019, Dave moved to Washington, D.C. 
with hopes of obtaining a full-time position in Congress.
  Dave joined the House Appropriations Committee as an intern in 2019 
and did such great work that he officially joined my committee staff in 
2020. In his role, he served as the ultimate utility player, always 
willing and eager to assist when needed, regardless of the task at 
hand. Whether it was preparing materials for hearings and briefings or 
assisting staff with

[[Page E449]]

reviewing legislation, he worked just as hard as anyone and did so with 
a heart of gratitude and service. Dave always had a smile on his face 
and a joyful spirit that uplifted others. He truly made a positive 
impact on everyone he interacted with.
  At the age of 24, Dave passed away just days shy of his two-year work 
anniversary. Joined by family, friends, and committee staff, his 
funeral service was held at the same chapel he was baptized in as a 
child.
  Today, May 3rd, would have been Dave's 25th birthday. In honor of his 
birthday, we celebrate his life and remember the incredible son, 
brother, and friend he was. Words cannot express how saddened we are at 
the loss of someone so young and so kind. Dave is dearly missed by his 
colleagues. On behalf of Congress and the Appropriations Committee, I 
offer my deepest condolences to Dave's family and friends.

                          ____________________