Floor SpeechNeutral2026-04-30

HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. "DK" CARPENTER

DefenseLaborVeteransInfrastructure

Context

On 2026-04-30, Representative Darin LaHood (R-IL-16) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. "DK" CARPENTER" in the House. The speech addressed defense and also covered labor policy, veterans affairs.

Full Text

HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. "DK" CARPENTER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 76 (Thursday, April 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 76 (Thursday, April 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E399] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. ``DK'' CARPENTER ______ HON. DARIN LaHOOD of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, April 30, 2026 Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the remarkable service of Major General Donald K. ``DK'' Carpenter, a native son of Illinois and a leader whose career exemplifies the very best of American military service. General Carpenter's journey began in 1983 when he enlisted as a jet engine mechanic in the United States Navy. Answering our Nation's call with honor and dedication. After transitioning to the Illinois Air National Guard, he continued to serve with distinction, rising through the enlisted ranks to Master Sergeant before earning a commission as an officer, a testament to his leadership, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Throughout his career with the Illinois Air National Guard, including many impactful years with the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, General Carpenter led Airmen in multiple deployments overseas, oversaw complex and critical maintenance operations, and helped strengthen vital partnerships with allied forces. His leadership elevated the readiness and capabilities of the units he served. In June 2023, his exceptional service and skill were recognized when he was promoted to Major General and selected to lead logistics and sustainment for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program, managing critical global operations that keep our Nation's most advanced fighter aircraft in the air. From enlisted Airman to Major General, and from Peoria to the global stage, DK Carpenter's career embodies dedication, leadership, and the enduring spirit of the United States military. I thank him for his decades of selfless service to our Nation and to the people of Illinois, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his extraordinary legacy. ____________________

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HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. "DK" CARPENTER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 76 (Thursday, April 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 76 (Thursday, April 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E399] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MAJOR GENERAL DONALD K. ``DK'' CARPENTER ______ HON. DARIN LaHOOD of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, April 30, 2026 Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the remarkable service of Major General Donald K. ``DK'' Carpenter, a native son of Illinois and a leader whose career exemplifies the very best of American military service. General Carpenter's journey began in 1983 when he enlisted as a jet engine mechanic in the United States Navy. Answering our Nation's call with honor and dedication. After transitioning to the Illinois Air National Guard, he continued to serve with distinction, rising through the enlisted ranks to Master Sergeant before earning a commission as an officer, a testament to his leadership, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Throughout his career with the Illinois Air National Guard, including many impactful years with the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, General Carpenter led Airmen in multiple deployments overseas, oversaw complex and critical maintenance operations, and helped strengthen vital partnerships with allied forces. His leadership elevated the readiness and capabilities of the units he served. In June 2023, his exceptional service and skill were recognized when he was promoted to Major General and selected to lead logistics and sustainment for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program, managing critical global operations that keep our Nation's most advanced fighter aircraft in the air. From enlisted Airman to Major General, and from Peoria to the global stage, DK Carpenter's career embodies dedication, leadership, and the enduring spirit of the United States military. I thank him for his decades of selfless service to our Nation and to the people of Illinois, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his extraordinary legacy. ____________________