HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DON PATCHEN

On 2026-08-10, Representative Aaron Bean (R-FL-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DON PATCHEN" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DON PATCHEN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E779] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DON PATCHEN ______ HON. AARON BEAN of florida in the house of representatives Monday, August 10, 2026 Mr. BEAN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Donald ``Don'' David Patchen, a decorated Vietnam veteran, longtime law enforcement officer, and devoted public servant, who passed away on April 21, 2026, at the age of 79. Don lived a life defined by courage, service, and a commitment to others. From 1966 to 1969, he served our nation in the United States Army, including combat duty in the Vietnam War. He was wounded twice in service to his country--a reflection of the sacrifice he willingly made in defense of our nation and the freedoms we cherish. Following his military service, Don joined the Tallahassee Police Department, beginning a distinguished 27-year career in law enforcement. For 17 of those years, he was a homicide detective, including serving as the lead investigator in the Ted Bundy case. Later in his career, Don served as a Field Training Officer, where he passed on his experience and hard-earned knowledge to the next generation of officers. Don served for several years as president of the Optimist Club of Tallahassee, continuing his lifelong dedication to community and supporting others. Yet Don was far more than his uniform or badge. He embraced life with energy and curiosity. He was a judo champion, a skilled pilot, a motorcycle enthusiast, and a competitive dog trainer. He is survived by his wife, Diane Bean Patchen; his daughter, Dr. Kim Al-Mayyah, and her husband, Hayder; his son, Bubba Carver, and his wife, Jenna; his daughter, Ragan Simpson, and her spouse, Paige; and his niece, Angela Reynolds. Mr. Speaker, as we mark 250 years of American independence, we are reminded that our nation's story is carried forward by men and women like Don Patchen--those who answered the call to serve and who continued that service long after their formal duty ended. Because of lives like his, our nation is stronger, and our gratitude is deeper. ____________________