[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 120 (Wednesday, July 22, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4226-S4227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING FRANK TEDESCHI

  Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and service 
of Frank Tedeschi, who passed away on July 9, 2026.
  Frank served as a dedicated soldier, extraordinary public servant, 
and a true patriot. His contributions to our Nation's national defense 
were tremendously significant. While the American public may never know 
of his accomplishments, our country is safer and stronger because of 
his commitment, integrity, and tireless work.
  Frank's journey of service began in uniform. He enlisted in the U.S. 
Army and served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as an enlisted 
soldier and an officer. He was a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, and 
his outstanding leadership and dedication resulted in his selection for 
battalion command, an honor reserved for a minority of Army officers 
who have demonstrated exceptional ability, character, and leadership.
  Unfortunately, Frank's Army career was cut short due to medical 
reasons. But for Frank, leaving military service did not mean leaving 
the fight. He brought the same dedication, discipline, and commitment 
to public service when he joined my Senate staff.
  Frank began his time on my team as a fellow. He quickly distinguished 
himself and went on to serve as my defense policy adviser and later as 
my legislative director. In every role, Frank demonstrated an uncommon 
commitment to getting things right. We called him bulldog. He cared 
deeply about national security, the Department of Defense, and most 
importantly, the people of South Dakota.
  Frank was one of a kind. He was a proud New Yorker, and he carried 
that personality with him every day. He was direct, blunt, and never 
one to waste words. He would tell you exactly what he thought--and 
usually, he was right. But behind that sometimes gruff exterior was a 
man with a tremendous heart, a great sense of humor, and a deep concern 
for others.
  As legislative director, Frank held himself and those around him to 
the highest standards. He believed public service was a profound 
responsibility, not merely a job. He rolled up his sleeves, did the 
hard work, and expected the same commitment from everyone around him. 
At every opportunity, Frank chose the right path, even when it was the 
harder path. His integrity was unwavering.
  Frank's dedication to our Nation's security was remarkable. After 
leaving my office, he continued his service as the congressional and 
interagency adviser to the 12th and 13th Vice Chairman of the Joint 
Chiefs of Staff, where he continued advocating for our military and 
helping to make sure Congress had the information needed to make sound 
decisions. He was the major driving force behind a generational change 
in the Joint Requirements Oversight Council, which sets military 
requirements for the future force. Another example of Frank's myriad 
impacts as a member of my

[[Page S4227]]

staff was his work helping defend the Department of Defense's exclusive 
use of a critical portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. This effort 
was vital to making sure our military retained the capabilities 
necessary to protect our Nation. It was exactly the type of complex 
national security challenge where Frank's expertise, persistence, and 
commitment made a difference.
  Frank Tedeschi embodied the very best qualities of a soldier and a 
public servant. He was loyal, courageous, hard working, and committed 
to something greater than himself. His loss is deeply felt by his 
family, his friends, his colleagues, and all those fortunate enough to 
have served alongside him.
  To Frank's family, I extend my deepest condolences and my gratitude 
for sharing him with our Nation. Frank gave so much of himself in 
service to others. The United States is better because of his life. My 
team and I are all better because we had the privilege of knowing him.
  May God bless Frank Tedeschi, his family, and the United States of 
America.

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