HONORING STEVE KWARCIANY ON BEING NAMED THE 2026 UPPER PENINSULA VETERAN OF THE YEAR

On 2026-09-02, Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING STEVE KWARCIANY ON BEING NAMED THE 2026 UPPER PENINSULA VETERAN OF THE YEAR" in the House.

HONORING STEVE KWARCIANY ON BEING NAMED THE 2026 UPPER PENINSULA VETERAN OF THE YEAR

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 139 (Wednesday, September 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 139 (Wednesday, September 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E847] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING STEVE KWARCIANY ON BEING NAMED THE 2026 UPPER PENINSULA VETERAN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. JACK BERGMAN of michigan in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 2, 2026 Mr. BERGMAN. 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. ____________________