On the recordOctober 21, 2020
I rise today to pay tribute to my dear friend and colleague, Deirdre ``Dee'' Wallace, who retired this year after 36 years of Federal service. A true civil servant, Dee served our country and its citizens with humility and empathy for decades. Since taking the vow to serve and protect our Nation as a soldier in the U.S. Army, Dee has never stopped fighting for the American people. After 5 years of military service, Dee dedicated her life to making government work for the people during decades of service with the Army National Guard and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Never discouraged, Dee embodies the type of caring spirit and can-do attitude that we should all strive to emulate. As my chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Dee worked tirelessly to bring awareness to servicemembers battling posttraumatic stress disorder and veterans facing homelessness. In our time together, I learned that no stone will go unturned with Dee around. She will always find a way to care for America's heroes. Her service to her community is remarkable and her story inspiring. I stand here today to applaud my dear friend and to honor her extraordinary work. Dee, I wish you the best of luck in retirement and thank you for your service. ____________________





