[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 64 (Monday, April 13, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S1709]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO LIEUTENANT COLONEL JOSHUA HAYNES

  Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I rise today to honor U.S. Air Force Lt. 
Col. Joshua Haynes.
  As an Air Force Senate legislative liaison officer, from 8 December 
2023 to 30 June 2026, Josh performed his duties without reservation 
supporting the 118th and 119th Congresses. A 23-year veteran who rose 
from an enlisted Security Forces specialist to a master nuclear and 
missile operations officer, Josh has consistently proven his 
exceptional airmanship. He served as the coalition coordination cell 
chief during his deployment to Qatar last year, where he responded to 
an Iranian ballistic missile attack. Disregarding all personal risk, 
his immediate and decisive warning ensured U.S. and coalition partners 
found shelter, saving countless lives. He then orchestrated the post-
attack explosive ordnance disposal response, which resulted in zero 
casualties and a swift return to full operational capability for the 
base.
  Lieutenant Colonel Haynes further distinguished himself through his 
professionalism and dedication by serving as an Air Force legislative 
liaison to the Senate. In this role, he advised Department of the Air 
Force senior leaders and helped develop strategic engagement 
opportunities to advance U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force 
priorities. His leadership facilitated seamless collaboration across 64 
congressional offices, serving as the principal Air Force liaison to 21 
Senators and their respective staffs. He supported 219 engagements and 
delegations for 10 members of the Senate Armed Service Committee and 
their staff to showcase the Department's equities within the United 
States and abroad. Notably, Josh spearheaded initiatives within the Air 
Force's headquarters to effectively bridge the information gap between 
Members of Congress and the service branch.
  Josh's direct support led to the successful execution of countless 
Senate confirmations, posture, and subcommittee hearings, all while 
managing 138 congressional requests and 21 briefings that shaped and 
advanced legislative priorities. Additionally, Josh's commitment to 
enhancing global partnership was evident during 17 congressional and 
staff delegation trips planned and executed under his leadership. These 
trips supported the Air Force Caucus, State delegations, key Senate 
committees, and our allies and partners. Through these interactions, he 
strengthened international collaboration and cultivated relationships 
crucial for advancing shared defense priorities while showcasing select 
Department of the Air Force equities. His involvement and oversight 
enabled Members of Congress to make informed decisions to equip our 
warfighters with the necessary authorities and resources from the 
Department of the Air Force.
  Finally, Josh organized engagements with Congress and international 
partners, driving congressional representation at Poland's inaugural 
$4.6 billion F-35 rollout, strengthening U.S.-Poland partnerships, and 
supporting NATO defense cooperation. He led briefings and operational 
visits that resulted in legislation for improved missile defense and 
Indo-Pacific power projection. Josh's efforts led to numerous 
successful engagements between this body, current and former 
administration officials, senior military leaders, industry executives, 
technology innovators, and thought leaders. These interactions helped 
Senators and their staff advance our shared goal of peace through 
strength.
  Next, Lieutenant Colonel Haynes will move on to serve as the 
commander of Air Force ROTC Detachment 600 at East Carolina University 
in Greenville, NC. Josh and his wife Amanda have instilled a legacy of 
service for their three children: Morgan, Bridger, and Landrey. They 
have sacrificed much as a family in service to our Nation. I am 
thankful for Josh's service--along with his work with my office and the 
Senate--over the past 2 years. Please join me in saluting this American 
patriot's many contributions to our great Nation.

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