[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 126 (Wednesday, July 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E722]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE LIFE OF ROBERT ``BOBBY'' EDWARD PIETRANGELO

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 23, 2025

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay 
tribute to a courageous advocate, passionate man of faith and service, 
and devoted son, partner, and friend--Robert (Bobby) Edward 
Pietrangelo. We honor Bobby following his passing on January 3. 2025.
  Born on December 14, 2001, in Abington, Pennsylvania, Bobby entered 
the world showcasing true strength and resilience. He spent the first 
five and a half weeks of his life in the neonatal unit, but he quickly 
grew to be the smart, funny, and compassionate person his family and 
friends cherished.
  Bobby attended Upper Moreland schools and Pennridge High School, 
where he excelled in the honors and gifted programs, even taking 
college courses at Bucks County Community College while still in high 
school. His talents also shone through his musical ability. By playing 
the trombone and trumpet, competing in jazz competitions, and singing 
every song he knew. Bobby expressed his passion and creativity with 
infectious enthusiasm.
  Beyond the classroom and his love for music. Bobby grew up serving 
his community. After years of dedication with Boy Scout Troop 354. he 
became an Eagle Scout--just one example of his passion for leadership 
and service. He also volunteered as a firefighter for the Silverdale 
and Perseverance Fire Company in Souderton, Pennsylvania.
  Bobby continued his devoted service into his young adulthood. In 
April 2022, Bobby traveled to Ukraine to support humanitarian relief 
efforts. On this noble mission, he initially assisted in rescuing and 
recovering the injured and deceased from bombed civilian areas, 
including a maternity ward. Working with the Believe Family Foundation, 
he became a combat life-saver trainer to provide aid and deliver 
medical supplies to the front lines.
  In June 2024, Bobby courageously enlisted in the Ukrainian military--
standing shoulder to shoulder with brave Ukrainian men and women to 
defend Ukraine. He was deployed to the front multiple times, even 
surviving a drone attack in October 2024, which left him with a severe 
concussion and brain injury. Despite this, Bobby returned to the fight 
as soon as he was medically able--once again showcasing his true 
determination and spirit.
  In an effort to defend Pokrovsk from Russian invasion, Bobby gave his 
life to protecting the people of Ukraine. A true hero, he was a man who 
transformed his values into action--exhibiting resilience and valor in 
every chapter of his journey.
  It is with profound respect that I honor Bobby's memory. I send my 
heartfelt condolences to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

                          ____________________