[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 90 (Thursday, May 23, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H3512]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1415
                     IN MEMORY OF LUKE RATHSCHMIDT

  (Mr. LAWLER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I stand before you to honor the memory 
of Luke Rathschmidt, a dedicated veteran, community leader, and beloved 
father, who tragically passed away this past weekend.
  Luke's sudden departure leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew 
him. Luke was the inspiration behind United for the Troops, a charity 
founded by his parents, Jim and Patty Rathschmidt, which sends care 
packages to our brave soldiers overseas. This initiative began with a 
simple act of love: A care package sent to Luke during his deployment 
with the U.S. Army.
  His family's effort blossomed into a movement that has brought a 
touch of home to tens of thousands of our brave men and women abroad.
  A revered member of the Mahopac community, Luke was also the 
commander of VFW Post 5491, where he was known for his leadership and 
being a pillar of support for fellow veterans. His commitment to 
service was paralleled only by his dedication to his family, including 
his two children, Jaelynn and Brandt, and the love of his life, Tracy.
  Luke's legacy is in the lives he touched, the community he 
strengthened, and the country he served. We mourn his loss, but 
celebrate his incredible, impactful life.
  I extend my deepest condolences to the Rathschmidt family and all who 
were fortunate enough to know Luke. He was truly larger than life, and 
his memory will indeed last a lifetime.

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