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Recognizing Victor Odermat

Floor Speech

Date: Dec. 9, 2025
Location: Washington, DC

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Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Victor Odermat for his many years of dedication to our country, both through his military service and active support for the Puget Sound military community through Brown Bear Car Wash.

Victor valiantly served in the United States Marine Corps until the mid-1950's, and his dedication to service continued long after his active military duty. Upon graduating from Lakeside High School, Victor entered the University of Washington's NROTC program and would go on to serve in the United States Marine Corps until the mid-1950's. After leaving the Marines, Victor founded Brown Bear Car Wash, which would become a steadfast supporter of the military community. He displayed exemplary work ethic and was widely known for his commitment to ``taking care of the customer.''

Victor exemplified service and dedication to the military community, he carried this same unceasing devotion to serving those around him. Brown Bear Car Wash backs National Guard and Reserve troops through Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, offering free car washes to veterans on every Veterans Day and donating a portion of proceeds to the Puget Sound Honor Flight. Brown Bear Car Wash has donated over $71,000 to the Puget Sound Honor Flight and is a vital partner to Cathay Post No. 186, helping raise funds for veteran services. Beyond supporting the post, Brown Bear contributes to organizations like the USO, Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, and Boy Scouts of America, reflecting a deep commitment to the Puget Sound community. Victor has left a resounding impact on all those around him and was a true leader of the communities he was part of.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Victor Odermat for a lifetime of service to the United States of America and to his community. I am deeply grateful for his important efforts towards protecting our country and his outstanding contributions to the Puget Sound community. His legacy will not be forgotten.

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