[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 84 (Thursday, May 18, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1740-S1741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL JAMES BONNER

 Mr. SCHMITT. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the service 
of MG James Bonner of the U.S. Army. Tomorrow, he will relinquish 
command after nearly three years of leadership at the Maneuver Support 
Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood, MO.
  During Major General Bonner's tenure, he demonstrated dedicated 
leadership and played a crucial role in training approximately 240,000 
soldiers, marines, sailors, airmen, coast guardsmen, and civilians at 
Fort Leonard Wood. Major General Bonner worked diligently to emphasize 
the critical mission of the Army and Fort Leonard Wood in regional 
middle schools, high schools, and universities. He also tirelessly 
advocated for the fort and its surrounding community, expanding 
partnerships with local, State, and Federal leaders. Throughout his 
time, he hosted numerous elected officials, including the Missouri 
Governor, the Secretary of the Army, the Chief of Staff of the Army, 
the Sergeant Major of the Army, and the Marine Corps Commandant. During 
each visit, Major General Bonner ensured these strategic leaders 
witnessed the unique and irreplaceable capabilities and competencies on 
display at Fort Leonard Wood.
  In fact, I had the opportunity to personally witness Major General 
Bonner's leadership last week when I visited Fort Leonard Wood. My main 
focus was to meet with military families residing on the installation 
and discuss ways to improve their quality of life. Major General Bonner 
joined me during these visits, and I could clearly see his genuine care 
and concern for the families under his command.
  Recognizing Major General Bonner's exceptional talent, the Army has 
selected him to become the commanding general of U.S. Army North, where 
he will lead the Army's efforts to defend the homeland. After 3 years 
of commanding the finest CBRNE, engineer,

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and military police soldiers in the Army, I believe there is no one 
more qualified for this role. I express my gratitude to Major General 
Bonner for his dedicated service to the soldiers and families of the 
Fort Leonard Wood community and extend my best wishes for his future 
endeavors. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to MG Christopher 
Beck, who will assume command tomorrow. I am committed to continuing my 
support for the Fort Leonard Wood community and those who train 
there.

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