[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING REBECCA SAWYER SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BRITTANY PETTERSEN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 17, 2026

  Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Rebecca Sawyer 
Smith of Lakewood, Colorado for her 38 years of service within the 
Department of Veterans Affairs and congratulate her on her retirement.
  Rebecca began her federal government career as a graduate student at 
The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., when she joined 
the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Over the course of nearly four 
decades, she served in a variety of roles within the VA, including 
Public Affairs Officer, Coach, and member of the Public Contact Team. 
Her career took her to communities on both coasts and throughout the 
central United States before concluding in Lakewood, Colorado, where 
she retired at the end of 2025.
  Throughout her distinguished career, Rebecca dedicated herself to 
serving those who have served our country. She worked tirelessly to 
ensure veterans received the benefits and services they earned, 
providing both in-person and virtual benefits counseling. She also 
partnered closely with veteran service organizations and nonprofit 
groups to help veterans navigate and access the support available to 
them.
  Even in retirement, Rebecca continues her commitment to veterans in 
her community by volunteering with arts organizations that offer 
programs for veterans, further demonstrating her lifelong devotion to 
public service.
  On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it 
is my honor to thank Rebecca Sawyer Smith for her 38 years of service 
with the VA and to congratulate her on her retirement.

                          ____________________