[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 48 (Tuesday, March 17, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING BILL SWEET ON BEING NAMED VETERAN OF THE YEAR BY THE GRAND 
                    TRAVERSE AREA VETERANS COALITION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 17, 2026

  Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Bill Sweet on being 
named Veteran of the Year by the Grand Traverse Area Veterans 
Coalition. This well-deserved distinction reflects his steadfast 
dedication to his fellow Servicemembers, the communities throughout 
Northern Michigan, and our Nation.
  In May of 2025, Mr. Sweet embarked on an extraordinary 116-mile walk 
over the course of ten days to raise awareness for Veterans' mental 
health in partnership with Reining Liberty Ranch, a local Veterans 
nonprofit. Inspired by fellow Veteran, Travis Snyder, who was unable to 
complete his annual walk around Lake Michigan promoting awareness for 
Veterans' mental health and suicide prevention, Mr. Sweet chose to 
carry forward the mission by walking the M-22 stretch from Manistee 
County to Traverse City.
  With a sturdy pair of walking shoes and an American flag resting on 
his shoulder, Mr. Sweet set out to accomplish what he humbly described 
as ``a little bit of a selfish goal.'' Yet his journey was anything but 
selfish. As he traveled along the M-22 highway, he reflected on his 
family and friends and on the greater purpose of his walk: drawing 
attention to the challenges Servicemembers face long after their time 
in uniform has ended.
  His efforts embody the very best of American values: selflessness, 
determination, and an unwavering commitment to community. His walk 
serves as a powerful reminder that service does not end with one's 
final military contract; it continues in our dedication to supporting 
those who have sacrificed for our Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Mr. Bill Sweet for being 
named Veteran of the Year by The Grand Traverse Area Veterans 
Coalition. I thank him for his enduring commitment to our Veterans, his 
community, and our great country.

                          ____________________