[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 182 (Monday, December 9, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S6869]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO SENIOR MASTER SERGEANT KATRINA BUTLER

  Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize SMSgt Katrina 
Butler for her dedicated service to the U.S. Air Force and the Senate 
as a legislative defense fellow. Katrina has served as a vital part of 
my team since January 2024 as a trusted adviser on issues relating to 
the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
  Katrina enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in August 2006. She deployed 
in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom's Sentinel and 
was stationed at the Pentagon as a senior enlisted leader at U.S. Air 
Force headquarters. She has earned the Defense Meritorious Service 
Medal and Air Force Commendation Medal, among other decorations.
  Her effort and passion stood out as a valuable member of my 
legislative team. I am proud to have had someone like Katrina on my 
staff who understands the significance of maintaining America's air 
superiority and caring for our servicemembers and their families.
  During her tenure in my office, she made integral contributions to 
the U.S. Senate Air Force Caucus, leading multiple trips and hosting 
numerous key leader engagements that helped grow the relationship 
between lawmakers and the service during an active year.
  As she is soon to be promoted to the rank of chief master sergeant, 
Katrina's character and consistent display of knowledge, leadership, 
and devotion deserve to be recognized and rewarded.
  I am incredibly grateful for her dedication to serving the people of 
Arkansas. Both in the Nation's Capital and while visiting the Natural 
State, she spoke with and actively listened to our State's military, 
veterans and their families.
  We have been very fortunate to have Katrina's expertise and knowledge 
enhancing my team's work on defense and veterans policy. I also want to 
thank her husband Mr. Shikeem Butler and her beloved children Jaden, 
Laila, and Micah for their support during her time in uniform. Growing 
up in a military family, I understand that service in the Armed Forces 
is a family affair and impossible without their sacrifice.
  We appreciate Katrina's continued service to the U.S. Air Force and 
all her heartfelt, committed work as a member of my staff. Having her 
on my team has been a privilege, and she will always be welcome. I know 
she will remain an asset to our military and veterans in addition to 
any other endeavors she pursues; I wish her and her family the best and 
congratulate Katrina on this well-deserved promotion.

                          ____________________