[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 64 (Monday, April 13, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E314-E315]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING UNITED STATES ARMY SGT. MICHAEL DEBONIS FOR HIS PUBLIC AND
MILITARY SERVICE
_____
HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK
of pennsylvania
in the house of representatives
Monday, April 13, 2026
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an
exceptional individual from my district--Bucks County's own, Sgt.
Michael DeBonis. A courageous U.S. Army veteran and dedicated public
servant, Sgt. DeBonis assisted thousands of veterans in our community
in receiving the benefits they earned, organized trips to war
memorials, and led seminars with local law enforcement to better assist
veterans in crisis. I proudly commend him, following decades of
committed service to not only the people of Bucks County, but to our
Nation as well.
Drafted into the U.S. Army on May 7, 1968, Michael served in Vietnam,
specializing as a Military Policeman. Through his resolute dedication
to our Nation, he earned the Army Commendation Medal with 2 Overseas
Bars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with a Silver Star for five campaigns,
and the Good Conduct Medal. Returning home to his wife Lynne in
December of 1969, Michael devoted his career to serving the brave
veterans who served alongside him.
As Senior Commander of VFW Post 6393 and Member of the VA Advisory
Board for the Horsham, Pennsylvania Clinic, Sgt. DeBonis provided
strategic guidance, advisory services,
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event organization, and VA assistance to countless veterans throughout
my district. The friendship and camaraderie with his fellow veterans
remain unwavering and given without reservation. Sgt. DeBonis was not
only dedicated, but he was also selfless. While serving as Vice
President of the Bucks County Tour of Honor, he organized free trips
for thousands of veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their respective
war memorials.
In his free time, Sgt. DeBonis is an avid lover of the outdoors. On
land, he is an ardent bird photographer, woodworker, astronomer, and
restaurateur. On the water, he is a passionate fly fisherman. Through
these pursuits, he not only enriched his own life, but also fostered a
deep appreciation for nature, craftsmanship, and his community above
all.
Most notably, Sgt. DeBonis is known as a trusted mentor and leader.
He is always willing to assist a fellow veteran, being the right person
to turn to for invaluable guidance and support. His indispensable
knowledge, veteran advocacy, and sound judgement are just a few of the
hallmarks that make Sergeant Michael DeBonis the outstanding man he is
today.
Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt recognition to Sgt. Michael
DeBonis for his ongoing veteran advocacy and thank him for his decades
of distinguished service to the citizens of Bucks County and beyond.
His leadership and dedication will leave a lasting mark on the
community he so faithfully serves.
____________________