[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 101 (Thursday, June 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E566-E567]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF UNITED STATES ARMY VETERAN WALT 
                                HARTNETT

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 12, 2025

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor and recognize the 
life of Walt Hartnett, a devoted Army Veteran, tireless advocate, and 
passionate supporter of Veterans' rights. Walt's unwavering dedication 
to serving his fellow Veterans and his community left an indelible mark 
on all those who had the privilege of working with him.
  Walt's military career spanned a total of 12 years, including 9 years 
of active duty and three years in the Army reserves. As an artillery 
crew member on active duty and a finance specialist during his time in 
the reserves, Walt's expertise and commitment to service were clear. He 
deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 to 2011 with the Army Reserves, where 
he served honorably before being medically discharged.
  After leaving active service, Walt continued his commitment to 
helping fellow Veterans by becoming involved in Veteran organizations, 
including serving as the Commander of VFW Post 1074 in Conshohocken, 
Pennsylvania. Walt's leadership extended beyond his post as he also 
served as District Commander of VFW Pennsylvania District 16. His 
contributions to these organizations were rooted in his desire to 
support and uplift fellow Veterans and their families, constantly 
working to grow membership and expand community outreach.
  In addition to his work in the VFW, Walt's passion for supporting 
Veterans continued in his role as a Veterans Affairs Caseworker for the 
United States House of Representatives. In this capacity, Walt worked 
tirelessly to assist Veterans and Servicemembers in navigating the 
complexities of federal benefits, healthcare, and other issues related 
to the Department of Veterans Affairs. His work as a caseworker 
included assisting with student nominations for military service 
academies and communicating vital information to local Veteran 
organizations.

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  Throughout his time in public service. Walt focused on leaving a 
positive impact wherever he went. His mission was always clear: to 
support his fellow Veterans, their families, and the communities that 
supported them. He dedicated himself to making each day better for his 
fellow Veterans, and his leadership, kindness, and dedication will not 
be forgotten.
  Walt's loss is profound, and it is impossible to overstate the impact 
he had on the Veterans' community, his colleagues, and his family. A 
true champion for Veterans, his legacy will live on in the work he did 
and the countless lives he touched. Walt's commitment to serving his 
fellow Veterans, his courage in the face of adversity, and his deep 
love for his community will continue to inspire us all. His memory will 
forever remind us of the importance of honoring those who serve and 
making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
  Mr. Speaker, I recognize the extraordinary life and service of Walt 
Hartnett. May his memory continue to serve as a reminder of the impact 
one person can have on a community, a country, and a cause.

                          ____________________