[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 28, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2076-S2077]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO DONALD WAYNE ENGEL

 Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today I have the honor to recognize 
Donald Wayne Engel as Montanan of the Month.
  Donald Wayne Engel is a resident of Libby, MT. Engel was born on May 
2, 1922, and joined the Air Force after high school. Early in his 
military career, Don was sent to Europe to fight against Germany in 
World War II and served as a member of a U.S. bomber team stationed 
near England.

[[Page S2077]]

  Don was a fearless fighter and experienced times where his fighter 
plane was hit, but was never struck down. In 1945, Don was appointed to 
the rank of second lieutenant. Following his service, Don attended 
college to earn his degree to become an electrical engineer. The Air 
Force then assigned him to work with air ballistics and missile bases 
throughout the United States. He retired in August of 1969 with the 
rank of major.
  Outside of Don's military career, he was married to Mervyn Engel and 
raised two children Patricia and James Engel. When Don wasn't on duty 
or with his family, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, and camping in the 
Rocky Mountains. Don was an avid lover of the outdoors and the 
mountains, so much that once he retired, he moved onto a piece of land 
outside of Noxon, MT, where he would juice his own apples and chop his 
own firewood.
  Don now lives in Libby, MT, and will celebrate his 104th birthday on 
May 2.
  It is my distinct honor to recognize Donald Wayne Engel as Montanan 
of the Month. Not only is Don an incredible example of a true military 
patriot, but a true Montanan at heart, and we commend him for his hard 
work and dedication to service to his country that will be remembered 
and inspire many.

                          ____________________