HONORING COMMANDER GABRIEL EDWARDS

On 2026-07-15, Representative Val T. Hoyle (D-OR-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING COMMANDER GABRIEL EDWARDS" in the House.

HONORING COMMANDER GABRIEL EDWARDS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4530] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1730 HONORING COMMANDER GABRIEL EDWARDS (Ms. HOYLE of Oregon asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.) Ms. HOYLE of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in honor of Commander Gabriel Edwards, from Oakland, Oregon, who died while serving as the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 in the Arabian Sea. After 4 days of searching over 14,000 square miles, the Navy declared him lost at sea during an emergency helicopter landing. Gabriel earned his wings as a helicopter pilot in 2008 and received several awards during his service, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. He knew he wanted to be a pilot at just 4 years old. This is how his wife, Rebecca, described him: ``Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment. He led with humility, integrity, and compassion, always putting his people before himself. To those who served alongside him, he was a respected leader and mentor.'' My thoughts are with Rebecca and their two children during this time. I am glad to know the Secretary of the Navy has directed that Edwards be posthumously promoted to the rank of captain. His heroism will never be forgotten, and I know all of us in Oregon and around the country thank him for his honorable service. May his memory be a blessing. ____________________