[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 122 (Monday, July 27, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E748]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING RETIRED COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR DAVID KEEN

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MIKE BOST

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 27, 2026

  Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the dedication of 
retired Command Sergeant Major David Keen to his hometown of Mt. 
Vernon, Illinois. CSM Keen has served his country and community through 
his actions as a soldier, father, mentor, and leader.
  CSM Keen served 24 years in the U.S. Army. Keen was stationed in 
Germany with the 3rd Armored Division. When he returned home, he 
decided to continue his military career by enlisting in the Illinois 
National Guard as a noncommissioned officer achieving the rank of 
Commanding Sergeant Major of the 3rd Battalion, 129th regiment.
  CSM Keen would become a leader within his community serving as Mayor 
of Mt. Vernon. He actively supports fellow veterans through programs 
such as: Jefferson County Operation Iraqi Freedom, Veterans Roof 
Program, and serving as a Veterans Memorial Committee chairman in the 
Mt. Vernon Park.
  CSM Keen's leadership through service would expand to chairing the 
Jefferson County Senior Saints for more than 20 years. In CSM Keen's 
local church, the Mt. Vernon Baptist Temple, he serves as a deacon and 
a loyal member of the church for 45 years.
  CSM Keen's community leadership would lead him to volunteer with the 
Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Mentors 4 Kids programs. CSM Keen 
would change the course of several young people's lives, providing them 
with the building blocks to become community leaders.
  CSM Keen has been a devoted husband of 50 years to his wife Joanne. 
He is the father of two daughters Michelle and Amy, and grandfather to 
his four grandchildren. CSM Keen is also a devoted son, as he still 
cares for and spends time with his 96-year-old mother daily.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing retired Command Sergeant 
Major David Keen on the dedication and selfless service he has provided 
to his family, local community, and Nation. I believe he is a perfect 
example of what serving our communities should look like. I look 
forward to his achievements to come.

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