[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 149 (Tuesday, September 24, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E961]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING MAJOR THOMAS ``TK'' KENNEDY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MICHAEL LAWLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 2024

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Major Thomas 
``TK'' Kennedy, a true son of Rockland County, whose unwavering 
dedication to serving his country with valor and distinction is a 
shining example of patriotism.
  Born in Suffern, New York, and raised in New York City, Tom was the 
youngest of three boys. He loved to play hockey, playing for the Ramapo 
Saints, followed by Don Bosco Preparatory School, and eventually as 
part of the Black Knights of the United States Military Academy at West 
Point, where he graduated in June 2000.
  On August 8, 2012, Major Kennedy tragically lost his life in Kunar 
Province, Afghanistan, when a Taliban suicide bomber struck while he 
was escorting a group to a provincial governor's meeting. His sudden 
departure left a void that can never be filled. He left behind his 
wife, Kami, and their twins, who were just weeks shy of their second 
birthday.
  Throughout his distinguished military career, Major Kennedy earned an 
impressive array of awards and service medals, including two Bronze 
Star Medals, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star posthumous, two Meritorious 
Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, and three Army 
Achievement Medals, among many others. His dedication to his country 
and his fellow soldiers will always be remembered.
  We honor Major Thomas ``TK'' Kennedy for his ultimate sacrifice and 
service and remember him as a loving husband, father, and hero who gave 
everything for his country. His sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the 
weight of service bore by our brave soldiers.

                          ____________________