- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: April 16, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
TRIBUTE TO MAJOR BENJAMIN “BEN” COHEN
HON. TOM COLE
of oklahoma
in the house of representatives
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Mr. COLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and pay a special thank you to a truly exceptional American, and U.S. Army officer, Major Benjamin “Ben” Cohen.
from January 2023 to December 2023 in which his professionalism, expertise, candor, and team-centric attitude was paramount to my staff's success in the FY24 Appropriations Cycle. His contributions during this time were instrumental in shaping budget and policy related discussions and advancing legislative priorities.
Budget Liaison in the Secretary of the Army's Financial Management and Comptroller's Budget Liaison (SAFMI-BUL) office, representing the Missile Procurement, Army (MiPA). Procurement of Army Ammunition (PAA), and Procurement of Wheeled Tracked Combat Vehicles (WTCV) appropriations portfolios. As a Liaison, Ben supported 25 staff delegation trips and 5 congressional delegation trips and expertly worked with the appropriations staff to ensure the United States Army's priorities were supported, cared for, and realized. His professionalism, dedication, and expertise have greatly benefited Members of Congress and their staff, leaving a lasting impression on all who have had the privilege of working with him.
from Norwich University in 2014 with a bachelor's in criminal justice and was commissioned Active Duty as a Field Artillery Officer.
Combat Team, where he served as a Company Fire Support Officer, Maintenance Control Officer, Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Brigade Adjutant. After completing his Captains Career Course in 2018. Ben returned to Alaska—Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Anchorage, Alaska, where he served as a Battalion Fire Support Officer for 3-509th Infantry (Airborne), Commander for HHC, 3-509th Infantry (Airborne), and Commander for B Battery, 2-377th PFAR. Upon completing his command time at JBER, Ben was accepted into the Army's Congressional Fellowship Program.
Professional Studies in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University in 2023, and a Master of Public Administration from Norwich University. Additionally, Ben is a graduate of United States Army's Ranger School, Jumpmaster Course, Basic Airborne Course, Air Assault School, and the Army's Cold Weather Leaders Course.
as a Coach for youth sports (hockey) in the local area, providing development and mentorship opportunities to local youth athletes. This year, Ben's St. James Hockey Team won the Atlantic Hockey Federation's (AHF) 16U Lemieux Division in dominant fashion, culminating a massively successful season with an overall record of 34-18-5.
dedication, leadership, and commitment to selfless service and excellence. His contributions to the Army and our Nation are truly commendable.
On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and a grateful Nation, I join my colleagues today in recognizing and commending my good friend, Major Benjamin “Ben” Cohen for his service and sacrifice.