[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E612]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING SECOND CLASS PETTY OFFICER ERIC WILLIAM TOTH AS JUNE 2026 
                          VETERAN OF THE MONTH

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                          HON. LISA C. McCLAIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 24, 2026

  Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Second Class 
Petty Officer Eric William Toth for his honorable service in the United 
States Navy and his continued dedication to supporting veterans in our 
community. It is my privilege to honor him as our June 2026 Veteran of 
the Month.
  Petty Officer Toth enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974, 
becoming the fourth generation of his family to serve in the Navy. Born 
on a Navy base in Virginia, he followed a proud family tradition of 
military service. After completing boot camp in California, Petty 
Officer Toth attended A School for Culinary Arts in San Diego, where he 
trained as a cook. Following graduation, he and his class were sent to 
Camp Pendleton, California, where they prepared meals for 25,000 
Vietnamese refugees.
  Shortly thereafter, he was assigned to the USS Independence, where he 
served for four years. During his service aboard the Independence, 
Petty Officer Toth worked in every phase of the ship's food service 
operation, gaining extensive experience in leadership, logistics, and 
operations. He also crossed the Equator multiple times, earning 
Shellback status, and crossed the Arctic Circle twice, earning the 
distinction of Blue Nose.
  Following his honorable military service, Petty Officer Toth built a 
successful career in the private sector, where he established himself 
as a respected business professional. In retirement, encouraged by his 
wife of thirty years, ConnieSue, he dedicated himself to supporting 
fellow veterans. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Holly Area 
Veterans Resource Center and as Second Vice Commander of American 
Legion Post 149 in Holly, continuing his lifelong commitment to 
service.
  In addition, Petty Officer Toth volunteers with the Holly American 
Legion and VFW Joint Honor Guard, performing military honors at Great 
Lakes National Cemetery and at local funeral homes and cemeteries. His 
dedication to honoring those who served reflects his deep respect for 
veterans and their families.
  Mr. Speaker, Second Class Petty Officer Eric William Toth's 
distinguished service in the United States Navy, his entrepreneurial 
achievements, and his unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and 
honoring their sacrifices reflect great credit upon himself, his 
family, and our community. It is my great honor to recognize his 
service and accomplishments by naming him our June 2026 Veteran of the 
Month.

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