- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: September 4, 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.
HON. JACK BERGMAN
of michigan
in the house of representatives
Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Army Specialist David Anthony Wilkey, Jr., a native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Wilson. As a teenager, he moved to Elkhart, Indiana. After graduating from Jimtown High School in 2003, David worked alongside his father at Plastic Components Inc. before answering the call to serve and enlisting in the United States Army. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based at Fort Riley, Kansas, and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
improvised explosive device detonated near David's unit, leaving him with wounds that would claim his life the following day. On June 18, 2007, at just 22 years old, Specialist Wilkey gave his life in defense of our Nation and in service to his fellow Soldiers.
to help others. He was the kind of person who was always ready to lend a hand, smooth out rough edges, and make a friend wherever he went. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, sports, repairing things, shopping, and poetry. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend who remained deeply connected to his loved ones even while serving thousands of miles from home.
Peninsula community where he grew up. Though his military service took him far from home, he returned to the place that helped shape him and where his memory remains part of the community which he called home.
Mr. Speaker, may we always remember Specialist David A. Wilkey, Jr., honor his service, and never forget that the freedoms we enjoy were defended by brave Americans like him.