TRIBUTE TO DONALD WAYNE ENGEL

On 2026-04-28, Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO DONALD WAYNE ENGEL" in the Senate. The speech addressed defense. It referenced legislation including S2076, S2077.

TRIBUTE TO DONALD WAYNE ENGEL

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 74 (Tuesday, April 28, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 28, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2076-S2077] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO DONALD WAYNE ENGEL Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today I have the honor to recognize Donald Wayne Engel as Montanan of the Month. Donald Wayne Engel is a resident of Libby, MT. Engel was born on May 2, 1922, and joined the Air Force after high school. Early in his military career, Don was sent to Europe to fight against Germany in World War II and served as a member of a U.S. bomber team stationed near England. [[Page S2077]] Don was a fearless fighter and experienced times where his fighter plane was hit, but was never struck down. In 1945, Don was appointed to the rank of second lieutenant. Following his service, Don attended college to earn his degree to become an electrical engineer. The Air Force then assigned him to work with air ballistics and missile bases throughout the United States. He retired in August of 1969 with the rank of major. Outside of Don's military career, he was married to Mervyn Engel and raised two children Patricia and James Engel. When Don wasn't on duty or with his family, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, and camping in the Rocky Mountains. Don was an avid lover of the outdoors and the mountains, so much that once he retired, he moved onto a piece of land outside of Noxon, MT, where he would juice his own apples and chop his own firewood. Don now lives in Libby, MT, and will celebrate his 104th birthday on May 2. It is my distinct honor to recognize Donald Wayne Engel as Montanan of the Month. Not only is Don an incredible example of a true military patriot, but a true Montanan at heart, and we commend him for his hard work and dedication to service to his country that will be remembered and inspire many. ____________________