[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 9 (Tuesday, January 13, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E31]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                       RECOGNIZING GABRIEL GRIESS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETH VAN DUYNE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 13, 2026

  Ms. VAN DUYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful 
Nation and the citizens of the 24th Congressional District of Texas. 
The 2025 Congressional Veteran Commendation is hereby presented to 
Lieutenant Colonel Gabriel Griess, United States Air Force, of 
Grapevine, Texas, for his honorable service in the Armed Forces of the 
United States of America and for his continued service to his 
community.
  Lieutenant Colonel Griess served with distinction in the United 
States Air Force from 1991 to 2015, holding command and leadership 
positions across the globe, including during Operation Enduring Freedom 
and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Over his 24-year career, he demonstrated 
exceptional skill, courage, and integrity in both combat and peacetime 
operations. His leadership ensured mission success and the safety of 
his personnel, and his mentorship inspired countless Airmen to excel in 
service. For his outstanding contributions, he received numerous 
decorations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 
Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with three 
oak leaf clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf 
clusters, among many others.
  Following his military career, Lieutenant Colonel Griess has 
continued to exemplify service before self through his civic and 
volunteer leadership. He serves as Secretary of the Tarrant County 
College Foundation and as a member of the Fort Worth Air Power Council. 
He is active in numerous Grapevine community organizations, including 
the Grapevine Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, and the City of 
Grapevine Building Board of Appeals. He has also served as a 
commissioner on the city's Planning and Zoning Commission, a PTA board 
member, youth coach, and advocate for civic engagement across Tarrant 
County.
  Lieutenant Colonel Griess' exemplary record of military and civic 
service reflects the highest traditions of the United States Air Force 
and brings great credit upon himself, the State of Texas, and the 
United States of America.

                          ____________________