[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 5959]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING STAFF SERGEANT CHRISTOPHER G. BARADAT ON 
                     RECEIVING THE AIR FORCE CROSS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MATT GAETZ

                               of florida

                  in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 25, 2017

  Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Staff 
Sergeant Christopher G. Baradat upon being awarded the Air Force Cross, 
the service's highest combat medal of valor.
  During his third deployment, Staff Sergeant Baradat called in close 
air support from A-10 Thunderbolt II fighter jets and AC-130 gunships 
while exposing himself directly to enemy gunfire. His efforts resulted 
in the safety and rescue of 150 troops and the destruction of 50 enemy 
and 13 separate fighting positions.
  The courage shown by this dedicated Special Tactics Airman is a true 
testament of his character. Staff Sergeant Baradat embodies the 
selfless commitment to service, sacrifice, and exceptional skill of our 
Nation's service members.
  The entire Northwest Florida community is immensely proud of our 
areas tradition of military service and support for those who wear the 
uniform. It is a true honor to recognize Staff Sergeant Baradat upon 
this most notable distinction.

                          ____________________