[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 57 (Monday, March 31, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E265-E266]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      SALUTING THE SERVICE OF MASTER SERGEANT DUANE C. BYGUM, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN R. CARTER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2025

  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to award Master Sergeant 
Duane C. Bygum, Jr., USMC and USAF, Retired, with a Congressional 
Veteran Commendation. His unwavering commitment to our country and 
community is a shining example of honor and duty.
  During his 32 years of military service, MSgt Bygum served in both 
the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force in various roles including 
Law Enforcement, Security Operation, and Emergency Management. During 
his four years in the Marine Corps, he served as an Infantry Corporal 
in Subic Bay, Philippines.
  Upon transitioning to the Air Force, MSgt Bygum served under the 
Secretary of the Air Force Director, Security, Counterintelligence and 
Special Program Oversight (SAF/AAZ). There he implemented the first 
Biometric Identification Fingerprint System, significantly enhancing 
the use of technology to expedite time-critical and sensitive data for 
the Department of Defense and the Air Force.
  Throughout his service, MSgt Bygum participated in Operation Northern 
Watch and Operation Enduring Freedom, and supported recovery efforts 
following the 9/11 attacks. He was awarded over 30 Military medals, 
awards and commendations including the Meritorious Service Medal.
  After retiring from active service, MSgt Bygum's duty to his fellow 
servicemembers and community did not end. He currently serves as an 
Associate Professor of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at 
National University. Additionally, he helped establish the Disaster 
Recovery International Military Mentorship Program, which provides 
transitioning veterans with training, mentorship, resume writing 
assistance, job placement, and skill-building opportunities, helping 
them smoothly transition into private and governmental sectors.
  MSgt Bygum's unwavering dedication and service to his Nation 
exemplify why he deserves this honor. I commend his remarkable 
contributions and extend my best wishes for his continued success as a 
steadfast advocate for our service members and veterans.

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