[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 69 (Monday, April 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E343]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING AND REMEMBERING MRS. CAROL KITMAN FOR HER HUGE IMPACT

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                       HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 20, 2026

  Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Carol Kitman, a 
stalwart supporter, a trusted friend, and a maternal figure whose 
presence has been a constant in my childhood, my life, and my family.
  I first met Mrs. Kitman in 1980, on the streets of Brighton Beach in 
Brooklyn, the year my family immigrated to New York from Ukraine in 
search of a better life. She saw my brother Alexander and me playing 
and asked our grandmother if she could take a photo--a small moment 
that marked the beginning of a lifelong connection.
  In that moment, Mrs. Kitman did more than take a photograph. She took 
the time to speak with us, to listen, and to understand our story. 
Carol was deeply touched by our Jewish family's journey to the United 
States and chose to remain a part of our lives.
  Over the years, she became someone I looked up to, admired and deeply 
trusted. My brother and I went to her house for trick-or-treating, get-
aways to the suburbs, and began to understand what the American dream 
could be for us. We forged a life-long bond with her and her husband, 
Mr. Marvin Kitman, an American television critic, humorist, and award-
winning author.
  The Kitmans were present for so many of our milestones, including our 
weddings, graduations, holidays, and family celebrations, always 
capturing those moments through Mrs. Kitman's lens. They attended my 
Pentagon ceremony, where I was honored with a promotion to rank of 
lieutenant colonel in the United States Army.
  Through her kindness, dedication, and generosity of spirit, Mrs. 
Kitman made a lasting impact on my life. She was far more than a 
photographer known for documenting the lives of my brother and me. From 
our very first meeting, she became a vital part of my life. Throughout 
her 96 years, she touched many lives across New York and New Jersey.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring and remembering 
Mrs. Carol Kitman and her husband Marvin, who played such meaningful 
role in my life. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Kitmans' 
children and their entire family. I am honored to have known them.

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