HONORING AND REMEMBERING MRS. CAROL KITMAN FOR HER HUGE IMPACT

On 2026-04-20, Representative Eugene Simon Vindman (D-VA-7) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING AND REMEMBERING MRS. CAROL KITMAN FOR HER HUGE IMPACT" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered foreign policy, defense.

HONORING AND REMEMBERING MRS. CAROL KITMAN FOR HER HUGE IMPACT

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 69 (Monday, April 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 69 (Monday, April 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E343] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING AND REMEMBERING MRS. CAROL KITMAN FOR HER HUGE IMPACT ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, April 20, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Carol Kitman, a stalwart supporter, a trusted friend, and a maternal figure whose presence has been a constant in my childhood, my life, and my family. I first met Mrs. Kitman in 1980, on the streets of Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, the year my family immigrated to New York from Ukraine in search of a better life. She saw my brother Alexander and me playing and asked our grandmother if she could take a photo--a small moment that marked the beginning of a lifelong connection. In that moment, Mrs. Kitman did more than take a photograph. She took the time to speak with us, to listen, and to understand our story. Carol was deeply touched by our Jewish family's journey to the United States and chose to remain a part of our lives. Over the years, she became someone I looked up to, admired and deeply trusted. My brother and I went to her house for trick-or-treating, get- aways to the suburbs, and began to understand what the American dream could be for us. We forged a life-long bond with her and her husband, Mr. Marvin Kitman, an American television critic, humorist, and award- winning author. The Kitmans were present for so many of our milestones, including our weddings, graduations, holidays, and family celebrations, always capturing those moments through Mrs. Kitman's lens. They attended my Pentagon ceremony, where I was honored with a promotion to rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States Army. Through her kindness, dedication, and generosity of spirit, Mrs. Kitman made a lasting impact on my life. She was far more than a photographer known for documenting the lives of my brother and me. From our very first meeting, she became a vital part of my life. Throughout her 96 years, she touched many lives across New York and New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring and remembering Mrs. Carol Kitman and her husband Marvin, who played such meaningful role in my life. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Kitmans' children and their entire family. I am honored to have known them. ____________________