[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING GENE FISHER AND HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COUNTY OF 
                                VENTURA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JULIA BROWNLEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 20, 2026

  Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Gene Fisher, 
whose exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy as Co-Chair and 
Executive Director of the Regional Defense Partnership have 
strengthened Ventura County's defense community, bolstered our regional 
economy, and ensured that our military installations remain resilient 
and mission-ready. Under Gene's leadership, the Regional Defense 
Partnership has served as Ventura County's community-based organization 
supporting our military installations and commands as essential assets 
to our national security and key contributors to our local economy.
  During periods of uncertainty and significant challenges, including 
threats of base realignment, downsizing, and evolving defense 
priorities, Gene was a steady and trusted leader who helped ensure that 
Naval Base Ventura County continued to thrive as the county's largest 
employer, generating an estimated $4.6 billion annually and supporting 
more than 24,000 military, civilian, and contractor jobs.
  Throughout his tenure, Gene represented the interests of Naval Base 
Ventura County with distinction, communicating its needs and priorities 
to local government leaders, educational institutions, and business 
partners, while building enduring partnerships among military commands, 
public agencies, and the private sector. His deep commitment to both 
the base and our community is evident in his work to ensure that 
Ventura County's infrastructure, workforce, and expertise continue to 
meet the evolving demands of 21st century national defense.
  Among his many accomplishments, Gene led the Regional Defense 
Partnership's efforts to expand Naval Base Ventura County from 
approximately 70 to 110 commands, helped secure funding and legislative 
support to enhance critical capabilities such as the Center for 
Maritime Directed Energy Testing, and worked to ensure that Ventura 
County remains at the forefront of advanced defense innovation and 
collaboration.
  Of particular importance to me is Gene's genuine passion for 
fostering cooperation and partnership. In addition to his many other 
community-focused initiatives, he convened monthly joint military--
community meetings, creating an essential forum for dialogue, 
coordination, and mutual support among base leadership, local 
stakeholders, and elected officials.
  As he steps down from this role, I am proud to join our community in 
recognizing Gene's 27 years of dedicated public service and his 
extraordinary contributions to preserving the defense, economic, and 
technological vitality of the County of Ventura.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I recognize 
Gene Fisher for his steadfast leadership and for the lasting impact he 
has had on our community.

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