Recognizing Chief Master Sergeant Chuck Powers

Floor Speech

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Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Chuck Powers, an exceptional member of the Air National Guard, for his distinguished service and dedication to furthering the mission of the National Guard.

A native of Albany, New York, Chief Master Sergeant Powers enlisted in the Air Force in December 2000. He has served for 23 years in the Active-Duty Air Force and now the New York Air National Guard in a broad range of assignments, including six deployments to Iraq, Oman, Afghanistan, and Antarctica in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Deep Freeze, and Operation New Dawn. Most recently, he served as a military personnel liaison for the National Guard Bureau Office of Legislative Liaison and Senior Enlisted Advisor, working diligently to improve the quality of life for our National Guard Soldiers and Airmen and to enhance the relationship between the National Guard and offices like mine. In November 2023, he took on a new role as the Senior Enlisted Leader to the National Guard Bureau Manpower and Personnel Directorate.

Chief Master Sergeant Powers' responsibilities as legislative liaison have had an impact on the National Guard Bureau and the work of all congressional offices. He demonstrated expertise in developing technical solutions, which modernized how the National Guard Bureau Office of Legislative Liaison engages with Members of Congress. His attention to detail and responsiveness strengthened the relationship between congressional offices and the National Guard immeasurably. He formulated a congressional engagement plan and prepared National Guard leadership for over 60 meetings and hearings, informed Members on the National Guard Bureau's legislative priorities, and answered hundreds of congressional inquiries, which provided critical information related to the annual National Defense Authorization Act.

Chief Master Sergeant Powers' efforts were also pivotal to improve quality of life for his fellow National Guard members, including the development of new guidelines for maternity and paternity leave. He embodies the qualities that one can expect from Non-Commissioned Officers.

I am grateful to Chief Master Sergeant Powers for his service in support of my office and others in the furtherance of National Guard missions. I would also like to express my appreciation to his supportive husband, Jamie Richards. I wish this National Guard family all the best in their next chapter of service to our Nation.

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