Jack Bergman

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dennis Iott of Kalkaska County on his induction into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame and to honor his more than four decades of dedication to Michigan agriculture.

For 45 years, Dennis has worked to build Iott Seed Farms into one of Michigan's premier agricultural operations. Under his leadership, the farm has nearly tripled its seed potato production and now grows approximately 27 million pounds of seed potatoes each year, making Iott Seed Farms the largest supplier of seed potatoes in Michigan. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as the 2026 Frito- Lay Seed Supplier of the Year, the 2025 Kalkaska Business of the Year, and the 2024 Michigan Association of Conservation Districts Conservation Farm of the Year.

Dennis's impact extends well beyond his own farm. As President of Potato Growers of Michigan and Chairman of the Kalkaska Conservation District Board of Directors, he has been a steadfast advocate for Michigan farmers and for responsible stewardship of our natural resources. He has worked with Michigan State University researchers, welcomed students and policymakers to his farm, and participated in field trials that advance agricultural practices strengthening both productivity and conservation. He has also been a consistent voice in discussions surrounding Michigan's water resources, advocating for sound science, responsible management, and continued access to water for farmers.

Perhaps most importantly, Dennis has invested in the people who will carry Michigan agriculture forward. Through mentorship, agricultural education, and years of service to farming organizations and his community, he has generously shared his knowledge with fellow farmers, students, researchers, and the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dennis on this well-deserved honor, thank him for his decades of service, and wish him and his family continued success for many growing seasons to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Army Specialist David Anthony Wilkey, Jr., a native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Specialist Wilkey was born in Norway, Michigan, and grew up nearby in Wilson. As a teenager, he moved to Elkhart, Indiana. After graduating from Jimtown High School in 2003, David worked alongside his father at Plastic Components Inc. before answering the call to serve and enlisting in the United States Army. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based at Fort Riley, Kansas, and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

On June 17, 2007, while traveling with a Humvee convoy in Baghdad, an improvised explosive device detonated near David's unit, leaving him with wounds that would claim his life the following day. On June 18, 2007, at just 22 years old, Specialist Wilkey gave his life in defense of our Nation and in service to his fellow Soldiers.

Those who knew David remember him as someone who was always willing to help others. He was the kind of person who was always ready to lend a hand, smooth out rough edges, and make a friend wherever he went. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, sports, repairing things, shopping, and poetry. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend who remained deeply connected to his loved ones even while serving thousands of miles from home.

David was ultimately laid to rest in Powers, Michigan, near the Upper Peninsula community where he grew up. Though his military service took him far from home, he returned to the place that helped shape him and where his memory remains part of the community which he called home.

Mr. Speaker, may we always remember Specialist David A. Wilkey, Jr., honor his service, and never forget that the freedoms we enjoy were defended by brave Americans like him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. For more than a decade, Steve has been a steadfast leader within numerous Veteran organizations across the Upper Peninsula, dedicating countless hours to improving the lives of those who have served our Nation.

As a Life Member of VFW Hiawatha Post 2998, AMVETS Escanaba Post 123, DAV Delta County Chapter 24, and Bark River American Legion Post 438, Steve has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving his fellow Veterans. His leadership roles as Commander of the Delta County Veterans Council, Quartermaster of VFW Post 2998, Senior Vice Commander of DAV Chapter 24, and Chairman of the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs Board reflect the confidence and respect he has earned from his fellow Veterans.

Steve played a vital role in the ballot referendum that established the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs, helping ensure that local Veterans have greater access to the resources and services they deserve. His service as Director of the Delta County Veterans Council's Memorial Day, POW/MIA Recognition Day, and Veterans Day ceremonies, along with his work as Funeral Honor Guard Commander and member of the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight Welcome Home Honor Guard, demonstrates his enduring commitment to honoring those who have worn the uniform.

Steve's work has left an enduring mark on the Upper Peninsula, Whether coordinating the annual VFW Poppy Sale, serving as a mentor for young people while at the Bark River-Harris Leo Club, or volunteering with the U.P. Off Road Races, Steve has consistently placed service above self. By exemplifying the highest standards of leadership, he has inspired countless others to embrace the values of citizenship, volunteerism, and patriotism.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate Steve on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his extraordinary service to our Nation, our Veterans, and the people of the Upper Peninsula.