[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 36 (Wednesday, February 28, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E183]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING MADISON MARSH

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                          HON. LAUREN BOEBERT

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 28, 2024

  Ms. BOEBERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Madison Marsh, a 
distinguished second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and the first 
active-duty service member to be crowned Miss America. Madison 
graduated from the Air Force Academy with a degree in physics and 
represents the epitome of dedication, intelligence, service, and class. 
She entered the world of pageantry motivated by a desire to serve and 
inspire others. and she has redefined what is possible for women across 
America.
  From a young age, Madison had a love of science and a dream to be a 
pilot and astronaut. Her parents encouraged her dreams, sending her to 
Space Camp when she was 13 years old where she met astronauts and 
fighter pilots.
  Around that time, she learned about the United States Air Force 
Academy and at 15 years old, started flying lessons. She earned her 
pilot's license two years later and then began to work towards her goal 
of becoming a cadet. Upon graduation from the and commissioning into 
the Air Force, she received a coveted pilot slot and is currently 
determining the career opportunities and personal projects she wants to 
pursue.
  Madison's accomplishments reach far beyond the Air Force and 
pageantry. She founded the Whitney Marsh Foundation to raise awareness 
and funds for pancreatic cancer research in memory of her mother.
  Madison is an exceptional role model for women and girls across our 
great country, teaching them that even the sky is not the limit. She is 
currently studying public policy as a graduate student at the Harvard 
Kennedy School, working to earn her master's degree. She is a two-time 
National Astronaut Scholar, National Rhodes Finalist, certified private 
pilot, black belt in tae kwon do, and U.S. Air Force Academy 
Superintendent's List NASA Intern.
  Mr. Speaker, Madison is an inspiration to women across America and a 
shining role model for all. I urge all Americans to join me in 
congratulating Madison on being crowned Miss America. Madison's journey 
reminds us of what we can accomplish when we work towards something 
greater than ourselves. I thank Madison for showing America what it 
means to be a Coloradoan.

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