Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Captain Ian Bastek who recently retired as the commanding officer in the Air Station Sacramento Command. Captain Bastek's career began in 1997 in the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and has been marked by exemplary dedication and leadership in the 27 years since. From training pilots at the Coast Guard Aviation Training Center in Alabama to serving as Senior U.S. Coast Guard Joint Task Force East adviser to NORAD and U.S. NORTHCOM, Captain Bastek has made immense contributions to our Nation's security throughout his decorated career. His contributions have earned him multiple prestigious military awards, including three Meritorious Service Medals, the Coast Guard Commendation Medal, and four Coast Guard Achievement Medals. Captain Bastek's leadership at Air Station Sacramento was particularly notable. Under his leadership, the air station solved a critical fuselage issue that grounded the world's C-27J fleet. While serving at Air Station Sacramento, Captain Bastek worked closely with my congressional office. His insights and advocacy were instrumental in ensuring that our Coast Guard units received the necessary funding to continue their essential missions. As he transitions to his new role as the deputy director of response in California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, I am confident that his leadership skills and expertise will continue to benefit our State.…”