On the recordMarch 17, 2022
I rise today to recognize a truly incredible and historic individual. Dan Cnossen is a textbook definition of honor and bravery. His story began when he was accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy after high school. In 2003, he completed the grueling process. Over the course of the next 6 years, Dan was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan where he rose in rank to becoming the officer in charge of an 18-man SEAL platoon. In 2009, late on a night mission in the mountains, Dan stepped on an improvised explosive device and lost both of his legs. Later, he was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with Valor. Over the next 2 years, Dan fought for his life. He endured 40 different surgeries, while simultaneously reintroducing himself into civilian life--neither an easy task on their own, but coupled together creates one extraordinary obstacle. While Dan was in rehab, though, he was introduced to the sport of cross-country skiing and biathlon. Dan pushed himself and was dedicated to earning a spot in the 2014 U.S. Paralympic Team, leading to an incredible--and ongoing--career. In 2018, Dan outstandingly won a gold medal, four silvers, and one bronze. In addition to his 2018 medals, he also earned the honor of Best Male Athlete of the Games. Most recently, at the 2022 Winter Paralympic Games, Dan made his country proud once again by winning gold in Cross Country Skiing Mixed Relay.…
