[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 205 (Wednesday, December 13, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H6926]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE MEMORY OF AIR FORCE MAJOR LUKE UNRATH

  (Mr. TAKANO asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. TAKANO. Madam Speaker, today, I rise with a heavy heart to honor 
the memory of Air Force Major Luke Unrath. Just days ago, Major Unrath 
lost his life when the CV-22B Osprey he piloted crashed during a 
training exercise off the coast of Japan. He was just 34 years old.
  Major Unrath's journey of service began in Riverside in my district 
where he graduated from Martin Luther King High School. His commitment 
to a life of purpose and selflessness was evident early.
  Described by his comrades as a natural leader, Major Unrath's cool 
demeanor, high standards, and quick wit left a mark on all who had the 
privilege of serving alongside him.
  Today, we remember and honor a beloved husband, brother, and son. 
Major Unrath's legacy is one of sacrifice, dedication, and exemplary 
service to our great Nation.
  Madam Speaker, may Major Luke Unrath rest in peace and may his memory 
inspire future generations to uphold the values of service, integrity, 
and courage that he so nobly embodied. I extend my deepest condolences 
to the Unrath family.
  Madam Speaker, today, along with my Riverside County colleague 
Representative Ken Calvert, I rise with a heavy heart to honor the 
memory of a true American hero, Air Force Major Luke Unrath. Just days 
ago, on November 29, Maj. Unrath lost his life in service to our nation 
when the CV-22B Osprey he piloted crashed during a training exercise 
off the coast of Japan. He was just 34 years old.
  Maj. Unrath's journey of service began in Riverside, where he 
graduated from Martin Luther King High School, embodying the spirit of 
his alma mater. His commitment to a life of purpose and selflessness 
was evident from the beginning of his life.
  Born and raised in Riverside, Maj. Unrath's family, including parents 
Gregg and Nora, and siblings Ashley, Scott, and Carly witnessed his 
unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the world.
  Commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at 
Cal Poly Pomona, Maj. Unrath earned a bachelor's degree in aerospace 
engineering in 2013. Embarking on his Air Force career on January 31, 
2014, he initially served as a developmental and astronautical engineer 
at Vandenberg Air Force Base. In 2019, he transitioned to become a 
pilot, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and growth.
  Maj. Unrath's leadership, intelligence, and work ethic did not go 
unnoticed. He played a pivotal role as an officer in charge for 
squadron communications and later as a flight commander. His impact 
extended far beyond the borders of our nation, as he coordinated and 
executed numerous operations in the Indo-Pacific area of 
responsibility.
  Described by his comrades as a natural leader, Maj. Unrath's cool 
demeanor, high standards, and quick wit left an indelible mark on all 
who had the privilege of serving alongside him. He loved to fly, and 
his steady hands and quick thinking earned him the trust and respect of 
his peers.
  Today, we remember and honor a beloved husband, brother, son, and an 
incredible leader. Maj. Unrath's legacy is one of sacrifice, 
dedication, and exemplary service to our great nation. We extend our 
deepest condolences to his family, and we express our gratitude for the 
profound impact he had on the lives of those he touched.
  May Major Luke Unrath rest in peace, and may his memory inspire 
future generations to uphold the values of service, integrity, and 
courage that he so nobly embodied.

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