Michael Baumgartner: “I rise today to honor Airman 1st Class Kimberlynn Blood of Fairfield, Washington, a shining example of the proud…”

“I rise today to honor Airman 1st Class Kimberlynn Blood of Fairfield, Washington, a shining example of the proud tradition of service that defines eastern Washington. Airman Blood is the third generation of her family to serve the United States Air Force, following her great-grandfather and her grandfather. Her father also served in the United States Navy from 2003 to 2008, and several members of her family are veterans or currently serving. Each week, when I come to the floor, I try to recognize one of the bright lights of eastern Washington, and Airman Blood is certainly one of those bright lights. A former Civil Air Patrol member, Airman Blood graduated basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base on December 4, 2025, with honors, ranking in the top 10 percent in her class and as the only female in her squadron. She went on to earn the prestigious Flight Chief Air Award at Sheppard Air Force Base, placing among the top 5 percent of her aircraft fuel systems class. Her first duty assignment will be at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom. Airman Blood's achievement reflects the patriotism and dedication that run deep in eastern Washington, and her community is incredibly proud of her commitment to serve our Nation.”