Recognizing United States Army Captain Mike Retzlaff

Floor Speech

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Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished service of Captain Mike Retzlaff, a proud veteran of the United States Army whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to duty reflect the highest traditions of military service.

Born and raised in Holly, Michigan, Captain Retzlaff pursued higher education at Cedarville University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science and completed the Army ROTC program. In 2017, he was commissioned as an Armor Officer in the United States Army, marking the beginning of a career of honorable service to our Nation.

Captain Retzlaff's first assignment was as a Tank Platoon Leader with 3rd Platoon, Battle Company, 1st Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment at Fort Carson, Colorado. In 2019, he deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Spartan Shield, where his leadership made a significant contribution to the mission's success. Upon returning, he served as the Headquarters Company Executive Officer, managing company operations, resources, and readiness. His performance and dedication during this period earned him induction into the prestigious Order of St. George.

Following his time at Fort Carson, Captain Retzlaff attended the Maneuver Captain's Career Course at Fort Benning, Georgia, graduating in 2022. He was then assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 16th Cavalry Regiment, where he served as an Armor Basic Officer Leader Course (ABOLC) Tactics Instructor, training the next generation of Army leaders.

In August 2022, Captain Retzlaff assumed command of Lightning Troop, 2nd Squadron, 16th Cavalry Regiment. As Troop Commander, he led more than 100 soldiers and was responsible for executing live-fire gunnery training for all new Armor Officers in the United States Army--an essential mission he carried out with distinction.

Upon completion of command, Captain Retzlaff returned home to Michigan, where he served at the Detroit Military Entrance Processing Station. During his tenure, he enlisted more than 1,000 applicants into their respective branches of service, shaping the future of America's Armed Forces.

Over the course of his military career, Captain Retzlaff completed numerous schools, including the Armor Basic Officer Leader Course, the Army Reconnaissance Course, Air Assault School, the Advanced Situational Awareness Course, the Maneuver Leaders Maintenance Course, and the Maneuver Captain's Career Course. His service has been recognized with the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and several other awards and decorations. He is also a proud Silver Spur holder and recipient of the Order of St. George.

Mr. Speaker, Captain Retzlaff's career reflects a legacy of leadership, professionalism, and patriotism. His service to our Nation has strengthened our armed forces and inspired those who served alongside him. It is my honor to recognize his contributions and extend our deepest gratitude for his dedication to the United States of America.

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