[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 215 (Friday, December 19, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1236]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING RHONDA SEWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 19, 2025

  Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Rhonda Seward--a 
distinguished recipient of the Hoosier Women Hero Award and an 
extraordinary U.S. Army veteran, leader, and mentor who embodies the 
highest ideals of service to our Nation and our communities.
  Rhonda enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1996 and served more than 20 
years with distinction including deployment during Operation Iraqi 
Freedom. She is recognized for her leadership, integrity, and 
mentorship having excelled in the areas of logistics, public affairs, 
and soldier support. Following her retirement, she continued her 
mission as a Peer Support Specialist, Veterans Court Mentor, and 
advocate for homeless, disabled, and justice-involved veterans.
  Rhonda has shaped veteran support networks statewide as Public 
Affairs Officer for AMVETS Post-99 and Commander of NABVETS Chapter 
0133, all while advocating for veterans before the Indiana General 
Assembly. Her dedication also extends to civic engagement including 
participation in the FBI Citizens Academy, suicide prevention efforts, 
Wreaths Across America, and Special Olympics Indiana. In her role as 
Junior ROTC instructor, Rhonda is also a powerful role model for the 
next generation.
  Recently, Rhonda earned gold medal at the 2025 National Veterans 
Creative Artists Festival for her poetry, exemplifying both the impact 
of military service and the healing power of creative expression. Her 
life reflects the highest ideals of service, courage, and empathy. 
Rhonda openly shares her challenges to inspire and support others, 
offering hope and healing to veterans and the broader community.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Rhonda Seward for her 
outstanding service to our country and her unwavering dedication to her 
fellow veterans. I thank Ms. Seward, for making Indianapolis a stronger 
and more compassionate community through her diligent service.

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