[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 18, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H2584]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           MOMENT OF SILENCE

  (Mr. GUTHRIE asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, tonight, the Kentucky congressional 
delegation rises to honor Army Staff Sergeant Benjamin Pennington and 
U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Ashley Pruitt, who were both killed 
in the line of duty while serving in support of Operation Epic Fury. 
Their selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten by the Commonwealth of 
Kentucky and these United States of America.
  Staff Sergeant Benjamin Pennington of Glendale, Kentucky, was 26 
years old. Growing up in Hardin County, he ran track at Central Hardin 
High School and was an Eagle Scout. After graduating in 2017, he 
enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with distinction ever since. He 
leaves behind a loving family and community.
  Technical Sergeant Ashley Pruitt of Bardstown, Kentucky, was 34 years 
old and a native of Nelson County. In high school, she was a member of 
the Air Force Junior ROTC program. Joining the Air Force in 2017, she 
found her passion as a boom operator aboard the Boeing KC-135 aerial 
refueling aircraft. She leaves behind her husband, Greg; their 3-year-
old daughter, Emilia; her stepson, Oliver; and her loving parents.
  The Commonwealth of Kentucky and the United States of America will 
forever be grateful to these brave heroes who made the ultimate 
sacrifice protecting our Nation. Their families and loved ones will 
always remain in our prayers.
  On behalf of the Kentucky congressional delegation and the House of 
Representatives, I ask the United States House of Representatives to 
observe a moment of silence in their honor.

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