[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 15 (Thursday, January 22, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E68]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE SERVICE OF MASTER GUNNERY SERGEANT WESLEY ``WES'' HELMS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ZACHARY NUNN

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 22, 2026

  Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of a 
great friend and true patriot, Master Gunnery Sergeant Wesley ``Wes'' 
Helms. His meritorious service to our Nation spanned more than 22 
years, including the past three years as a Defense Congressional Fellow 
and Legislative Liaison through the House of Representatives Liaison 
Office, Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs, where I had the 
honor of knowing him.
  During this time, I had the privilege of working closely with and 
traveling alongside Gunny Helms across the Middle East, East Asia, and 
to several of our NATO-allied countries. In every environment and under 
every circumstance, Wes proved himself a master of professionalism far 
beyond his years--a Marine with a get-it-done attitude who always 
delivered. He planned and executed several Congressional and Staff 
Delegation visits to forward-deployed units, giving lawmakers like me 
and their teams firsthand insight into the lives, challenges, and 
capabilities of our servicemembers stationed around the world. No 
matter the complexity of the itinerary or the conditions on the ground, 
Wes took care of the people under his charge, and he always succeeded 
in the mission of getting everyone home safely, usually with a laugh, 
and when appropriate, a well-earned drink at the end of a long day.
  Beyond his professional excellence, I am especially grateful for the 
kindness he showed my family. He took particular care of my wife, 
Kelly, and my daughter, Addi, who experienced her first international 
trip alongside Wes--a memory I will always cherish.
  On Capitol Hill, Wes Helms has earned a reputation for sound judgment 
and steady leadership that will be deeply missed. His counsel has been 
trusted by Members of Congress and their staff alike, who have leaned 
on his ability to translate complex operational needs into clear, 
actionable priorities. His work has strengthened congressional 
understanding of Marine Corps capabilities and requirements, ensuring 
that national security decisions are informed by firsthand insight and 
grounded expertise.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in a salute to a man, a 
father, and a friend for a lifetime of service in defense of our 
freedoms. I am eternally grateful for his friendship and wish him the 
best of luck in his next chapter.

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