TRIBUTE TO MAJOR BENJAMIN "BEN" COHEN

On 2026-04-16, Representative Tom Cole (R-OK-4) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO MAJOR BENJAMIN "BEN" COHEN" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered defense, crime and justice.

TRIBUTE TO MAJOR BENJAMIN "BEN" COHEN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E334] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO MAJOR BENJAMIN ``BEN'' COHEN ______ HON. TOM COLE of oklahoma in the house of representatives Thursday, April 16, 2026 Mr. COLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and pay a special thank you to a truly exceptional American, and U.S. Army officer, Major Benjamin ``Ben'' Cohen. Major Cohen served with distinction as a Defense Fellow in my office from January 2023 to December 2023 in which his professionalism, expertise, candor, and team-centric attitude was paramount to my staff's success in the FY24 Appropriations Cycle. His contributions during this time were instrumental in shaping budget and policy related discussions and advancing legislative priorities. Following his tenure in my office, Ben served as a Congressional Budget Liaison in the Secretary of the Army's Financial Management and Comptroller's Budget Liaison (SAFMI-BUL) office, representing the Missile Procurement, Army (MiPA). Procurement of Army Ammunition (PAA), and Procurement of Wheeled Tracked Combat Vehicles (WTCV) appropriations portfolios. As a Liaison, Ben supported 25 staff delegation trips and 5 congressional delegation trips and expertly worked with the appropriations staff to ensure the United States Army's priorities were supported, cared for, and realized. His professionalism, dedication, and expertise have greatly benefited Members of Congress and their staff, leaving a lasting impression on all who have had the privilege of working with him. Born and raised in Barnstable, Massachusetts, Major Cohen graduated from Norwich University in 2014 with a bachelor's in criminal justice and was commissioned Active Duty as a Field Artillery Officer. Major Cohen began his military career with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, where he served as a Company Fire Support Officer, Maintenance Control Officer, Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Brigade Adjutant. After completing his Captains Career Course in 2018. Ben returned to Alaska--Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Anchorage, Alaska, where he served as a Battalion Fire Support Officer for 3-509th Infantry (Airborne), Commander for HHC, 3-509th Infantry (Airborne), and Commander for B Battery, 2-377th PFAR. Upon completing his command time at JBER, Ben was accepted into the Army's Congressional Fellowship Program. Major Cohen's academic achievements include earning a Master of Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University in 2023, and a Master of Public Administration from Norwich University. Additionally, Ben is a graduate of United States Army's Ranger School, Jumpmaster Course, Basic Airborne Course, Air Assault School, and the Army's Cold Weather Leaders Course. In addition to his military duties, Major Cohen volunteers his time as a Coach for youth sports (hockey) in the local area, providing development and mentorship opportunities to local youth athletes. This year, Ben's St. James Hockey Team won the Atlantic Hockey Federation's (AHF) 16U Lemieux Division in dominant fashion, culminating a massively successful season with an overall record of 34-18-5. Major Cohen's exceptional career is a testament to his unwavering dedication, leadership, and commitment to selfless service and excellence. His contributions to the Army and our Nation are truly commendable. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and a grateful Nation, I join my colleagues today in recognizing and commending my good friend, Major Benjamin ``Ben'' Cohen for his service and sacrifice. ____________________