[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 71 (Thursday, April 27, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E368]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING TECHNICAL SERGEANT DENNIS GONZALEZ-FURMAN UPON RECEIVING THE 
                       DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 27, 2023

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend 
Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman of the 437th Air Mobility 
Wing for earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service, 
dedication, and sacrifice during Operation Allies Refuge. He 
exemplifies the best of America, and his tireless efforts guarantee the 
safety of all those who call America home.
  Last year, Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman joined the 
servicemembers of the 349th Air Mobility Wing in meeting a challenge of 
colossal scale, when they helped execute the drawdown of forces from 
Afghanistan. Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman and the 349th 
Air Mobility Wing played a critical role in the largest noncombatant 
evacuation operation in history, Operation Allies Refuge, ultimately 
saving over 124,000 lives. They directly supported the evacuation of 
nearly 13,000 Afghans while simultaneously managing the security and 
operations at Hamid Karzai International Airport. I have listened to 
countless stories from this group of brave men and women that exemplify 
the character, leadership, and bravery that is cultivated in the United 
States Air Force.
  Service records only scratch the surface of the courageous actions 
performed during Operation Allies Refuge. These valiant servicemembers, 
like Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman, put their hearts and 
lives on the line to save so many and epitomize the values of courage 
and patriotism.
  On behalf of a grateful country and all the constituents of 
California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to 
congratulate Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman of the 437th Air 
Mobility Wing for receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and extend 
my sincere gratitude for his sacrifice and contributions to the defense 
of this great country.

                          ____________________