HONORING MARCH VETERAN OF THE MONTH LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GREG COWAN

On 2025-03-26, Representative Mark Alford (R-MO-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MARCH VETERAN OF THE MONTH LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GREG COWAN" in the House. The speech addressed veterans affairs.

HONORING MARCH VETERAN OF THE MONTH LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GREG COWAN

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 55 (Wednesday, March 26, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 55 (Wednesday, March 26, 2025)] [House] [Pages H1280-H1281] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MARCH VETERAN OF THE MONTH LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GREG COWAN (Mr. Alford of Missouri was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. ALFORD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding American and our March Veteran of the Month, Lieutenant Commander Greg Cowan, United States Navy, Retired, from Lebanon, Missouri, in Laclede County. Greg Cowan's service to our Nation spans more than two decades, beginning in 1980 when he enlisted in the Navy. From his early days as an aviation electronics technician, to earning a commission through the Naval ROTC program, his dedication and commitment to our Nation never wavered. He served in duty stations across the country and around the world, from Rota, Spain, to Camp Lemonnier in Africa. He deployed multiple times to the CENTCOM areas of operation, serving aboard the USS Comstock, the USS Kitty Hawk, USS Harpers Ferry, and USS Inchon. His leadership as a surface warfare officer was instrumental in ensuring mission success and in training the next generation of warfighters. After retiring in 2024, Lieutenant Commander Cowan's passion for service continued through his dedication to mentoring and teaching others. His career is a testament to the values of duty, honor, and country. Today, we salute Lieutenant Commander Greg Cowan and thank him for his selfless service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the United States Navy and to the United States of America. Recognizing Gold Apple Boutique Mr. ALFORD. Madam Speaker, today we are proud to recognize Gold Apple [[Page H1281]] Boutique, located in the historic district of Fayette, Missouri, as Missouri's Fourth Congressional District March Small Business of the Month. Owned by Cana Conrow, Gold Apple Boutique is a shining example of entrepreneurial spirit and community dedication. Cana's passion for business and her desire to build a future for her growing family led her to open this unique shop on Fayette's historic square. I was just in it last week. It is a great store. They are offering fashionable clothing, accessories, and personalized items. Gold Apple Boutique provides a welcoming space where customers find both style and confidence. Cana's success is a testament to the impact of small businesses on local economies. Her engagement in our U.S. Chamber of Commerce roundtable last week highlighted her commitment to strengthening the business community. As spring approaches, Gold Apple Boutique's latest arrivals are already drawing in excited customers there on the square, proving that small businesses like hers keep our towns vibrant and keep them thriving. We congratulate Cana Conrow and Gold Apple Boutique on this well- earned recognition, our Small Business of the Month. We thank them for their dedication to Fayette and to making Missouri's small business community thrive. ____________________