On 2026-05-21, Representative William R. Keating (D-MA-9) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF KONSTANTINOS "KOSTI" KOSTIBAS" in the House.
HONORING THE LIFE OF KONSTANTINOS "KOSTI" KOSTIBAS
Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 87 (Thursday, May 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 87 (Thursday, May 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H3678] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1045 HONORING THE LIFE OF KONSTANTINOS ``KOSTI'' KOSTIBAS (Mr. Keating of Massachusetts was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Konstantinos ``Kosti'' Kostibas. Born on October 24, 1978, Kosti was a proud Texan who graduated with a bachelor of arts in international studies from Baylor University and a master of arts in international relationships from St. Mary's University. After graduating from Baylor University in 2002 with the rank of second lieutenant, Kosti served in the United States Air Force as an intelligence officer until 2006. Kosti continued to serve our country throughout his career, working in cyber operations at the Department of Defense. During his time with the U.S. Cyber Command, where he played a critical role in advancing our Nation's cybersecurity interests, Kosti was selected to serve as a legislative defense fellow for the 2023 Department of Air Force fellowship program. My colleagues and I will forever be grateful for the years that he spent with our office. Never failing to be the first person in the office every morning, Kosti not only brought his expertise in cybersecurity and intelligence matters but also his steadfast work ethic. He also incorporated a wry wit and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all of those around him. He had the unique ability to easily connect with anyone he crossed paths with and make them instantly feel as though they were speaking to an old friend for life. Sadly, we lost Kosti too soon at the age of 47 on April 22, 2026, after a hard-fought battle against glioblastoma. Above all, Kosti was a devoted husband to his wife, Megan, and a proud father to his children, John and Samantha. From his service in the United States Air Force and his years working for U.S. Cyber Command, to his time spent in Nebraska, Texas, and Maryland, Kosti will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune of working with him and spending time with him over the years. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Kosti Kostibas, and I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing his commitment to advancing the safety and security of our country, as well as the positive light he was in the lives of so many. May his memory be a blessing. ____________________