In Honor of Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Delaney

IN HONOR OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL MICHAEL J. DELANEY -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 08, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. ROBIN HAYES
OF NORTH CAROLINA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 2004

Mr. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the meritorious service of Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Delaney to our Army and our nation. Lieutenant Colonel Delaney will soon complete 23 years of service and has distinguished himself as an outstanding American Soldier I have worked with LTC Delaney during the past several years during his time in the Army Office of Legislative Liaison and have had the privilege to travel with him. He will retire on August 1, 2004.

Most recently, LTC Delaney served as a congressional liaison for the United States Army. This position holds great importance as these individuals are often the "voice" of the Army for Congressional Members. I have often asked LTC Delaney for his advice, thoughts, opinions or help matters concerning the US Army, and he has always provided the highest level of professionalism and service to me. Perhaps this assignment was preordained, however, as Lieutenant Colonel Delaney's wife, Susan, and mother-in-law, Shirley, both served on the staffs of several Senators.

Over his 23 years of selfless service, Lieutenant Colonel Delaney served in many command and staff positions worldwide. As a junior officer, he stood at the forefront of freedom during the Cold War in Germany and earned his wings as an aviator, qualifying on a variety of rotary wing and fixed wing aircraft. During Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Lieutenant Colonel Delaney commanded an aviation unit based at Fort Belvoir. Despite the wide dispersion of his unit throughout the combat theater, they were able to successfully accomplish their mission due to his exceptional and inspirational leadership. Lieutenant Colonel Delaney has since served in a variety of positions of increasing responsibility throughout the continental United States.

Lieutenant Colonel Delaney's work as a legislative liaison and as the Chief of the Programs Division enabled the Army to provide this Congress the information we need to accomplish our constitutional duties. His efforts have been exceptional and noteworthy in working with Congress during a critical time as the Army undertook Transformation, in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and during our current efforts with the Global War on Terrorism. Throughout this critical time Lieutenant Colonel Delaney has fostered a personal relationship between members of Congress and the United States Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Delaney represents the epitome of what the Army seeks in a congressional liaison and the country expects from our officers. His dedication to soldiers, commitment to excellence, and performance of duty have been extraordinary throughout his career. As he pursues new endeavors and challenges, I wish LTC Mike Delaney well and ask God to bless him and his family.