[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 109 (Wednesday, June 25, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E621]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE SERVICE AND RETIREMENT OF COLONEL DEREK C. OAKLEY, UNITED 
                            STATES AIR FORCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DUSTY JOHNSON

                            of south dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 25, 2025

  Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
and honor Colonel Derek C. Oakley on the occasion of his retirement 
from the United States Air Force, concluding an extraordinary career of 
over two decades in service to our Nation.
  Colonel Oakley most recently served as Commander of the 28th Bomb 
Wing at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. Under his 
instrumental leadership, the 28th Bomb Wing, home to the largest 
operational B-1 combat wing, provided unmatched global strike 
capabilities and remained a vital part of our national defense.
  Since commissioning through Officer Training School in May 2000, 
Colonel Oakley's record of service has been marked by excellence, 
professionalism, and an unshakable commitment to duty. Over the course 
of his distinguished career, he logged more than 3,400 flight hours, 
including 991 in combat. His career has spanned key leadership roles in 
operations, training, and strategic development.
  He has commanded at multiple levels, served on the Joint Staff, and 
played a vital role in the development of the B-21 Raider, shaping the 
future of American airpower. His service has been recognized with many 
decorations, including the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious 
Service Medal, and multiple Air Medals.
  On behalf of a grateful state and Nation, I thank Colonel Oakley for 
his decades of honorable service. We in South Dakota are proud to call 
him one of our own, and we wish him and his family all the best as they 
begin this new chapter.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 
remarkable career and retirement of Colonel Derek C. Oakley.

                          ____________________