[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 23]
[Senate]
[Page 32301]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO MASTER SERGEANT DENNIS TAKESHITA

 Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the service of 
Master Sergeant Dennis Takeshita, a member of the Hawaii Air National 
Guard. After 37 years of exemplary commitment and dedicated service in 
defense of our great Nation and 30 years in the Air National Guard, 
Master Sergeant Takeshita retired on October 3, 2003.
  Master Sergeant Takeshita's career experiences have been extensive. 
He received a commission into the Air Force Reserves in 1966 and served 
on active duty until 1972. Soon after his honorable discharge from the 
United States Air Force, Master Sergeant Takeshita joined the Hawaii 
Air National Guard. He is a decorated soldier who has received numerous 
citations and awards for his outstanding service and professionalism.
  A graduate of St. Louis High School in Honolulu and the University of 
Hawaii, Master Sergeant Takeshita's career has been one of dedication, 
service and sacrifice. He served a combat tour of duty during the 
Vietnam conflict from 1968 to 1969, as well as Operations Allied Force, 
Noble Eagle, and Enduring Freedom.
  Master Sergeant Takeshita is to be commended for his long tenure, 
unwavering patriotism, courageous service, unselfish leadership, and 
individual contributions to the defense of the United States. I applaud 
the distinguished career of Master Sergeant Dennis Takeshita and 
express my best wishes for a well-deserved and enjoyable 
retirement.

                          ____________________