The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING WILLIAM T. JOHNSON FOR HIS SERVICE AND EFFORTS THAT SAVED
THE LIVES OF NUMEROUS AFGHAN PARTNERS
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HON. ADAM SMITH
of washington
in the house of representatives
Thursday, December 16, 2021
Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of Colonel (Ret.) William T. Johnson, a retired U.S. Army officer and member of the Armed Services Committee's professional staff.
The work of this legislative body is supported by staff who work determinedly on behalf of the American public. These public servants provide valuable policy advice to Members of Congress, assist in crafting legislation and facilitating Congress' oversight responsibilities, among many important duties. While the work of all congressional staff should be recognized, I want to take a moment to single out COL Johnson for going above and beyond his professional responsibilities.
COL Johnson has served for many years on the Armed Services Committee as an expert on Afghanistan policy. This past year, COL Johnson provided invaluable advice to Members of Congress both on and off the Armed Service Committee, staffed critical hearings and briefings, drafted essential, late-breaking updates to the Department's authorities for the scope of its work in Afghanistan. As events unfolded in Afghanistan, offices across Capitol Hill received countless requests for assistance from Americans, Afghan partners, and members of the international community seeking safe passage out of Afghanistan. Many of those seeking assistance approached the Committee and COL Johnson took great initiative. He not only navigated the formal Defense and State Department process but also leveraged his own informal networks, based on his prior military service and time serving in Afghanistan. COL Johnson made connections that helped vulnerable individuals navigate their way safely to the United States. His tireless efforts and hours of work saved countless lives.
The Armed Services Committee and Member offices received many testimonials in the form of pictures, emails, and text messages confirming that individuals COL Johnson assisted had made it to safety. Without the tireless work of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces, the State Department, and public servants like COL Johnson, such messages of gratitude would not have been possible. This was a tremendous accomplishment. Speaking for myself, other Members of Congress, the American people, Afghans, and other partners, I thank him for his service and efforts.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 217
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