[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 207 (Tuesday, December 9, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                       RECOGNIZING VICTOR ODERMAT

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 9, 2025

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Victor 
Odermat for his many years of dedication to our country, both through 
his military service and active support for the Puget Sound military 
community through Brown Bear Car Wash.
  Victor valiantly served in the United States Marine Corps until the 
mid-1950's, and his dedication to service continued long after his 
active military duty. Upon graduating from Lakeside High School, Victor 
entered the University of Washington's NROTC program and would go on to 
serve in the United States Marine Corps until the mid-1950's. After 
leaving the Marines, Victor founded Brown Bear Car Wash, which would 
become a steadfast supporter of the military community. He displayed 
exemplary work ethic and was widely known for his commitment to 
``taking care of the customer.''
  Victor exemplified service and dedication to the military community, 
he carried this same unceasing devotion to serving those around him. 
Brown Bear Car Wash backs National Guard and Reserve troops through 
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, offering free car washes to 
veterans on every Veterans Day and donating a portion of proceeds to 
the Puget Sound Honor Flight. Brown Bear Car Wash has donated over 
$71,000 to the Puget Sound Honor Flight and is a vital partner to 
Cathay Post No. 186, helping raise funds for veteran services. Beyond 
supporting the post, Brown Bear contributes to organizations like the 
USO, Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, and Boy Scouts of America, 
reflecting a deep commitment to the Puget Sound community. Victor has 
left a resounding impact on all those around him and was a true leader 
of the communities he was part of.
  Mr. Speaker, I thank Victor Odermat for a lifetime of service to the 
United States of America and to his community. I am deeply grateful for 
his important efforts towards protecting our country and his 
outstanding contributions to the Puget Sound community. His legacy will 
not be forgotten.

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