Shontel M. Brown in the 119th Congress. [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 163 (Thursday, October 22, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1107] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing
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HONORING RONALD JEFFREY “JEFF” BAKER WITH THE NEW GUARD AWARD
HON. SHONTEL M. BROWN
of ohio
in the house of representatives
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Ms. BROWN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ronald Jeffrey “Jeff” Baker as a recipient of the New Guard Award and to honor his service to our Nation and his continued commitment to mentoring and supporting young people in our community.
Mr. Baker is a United States Army veteran who has carried the values of service, leadership, and responsibility into his civilian life. Through his work with young people, he has demonstrated that service to others can continue long after military service has concluded. As a coach and mentor, Mr. Baker has dedicated his time to encouraging young men to work hard, believe in themselves, and strive to reach their full potential. Through intramural sports and basketball, he has developed positive relationships with the young people he mentors and has become a consistent and supportive presence in their lives.
Mr. Baker's commitment extends well beyond his responsibilities as a coach. He personally helps ensure that the young men he mentors are able to participate by picking them up and transporting them to basketball practices and other activities. His willingness to invest his own time and effort demonstrates the personal commitment he has made to their success. For some of these young men, Mr. Baker has also become an important male role model. His mentorship provides encouragement, guidance, and stability to young people who may not otherwise have that support readily available. By showing up consistently and leading by example, he helps teach lessons of discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and perseverance that extend far beyond the basketball court.
service by investing in the next generation. It honors those who use mentorship, education, coaching, advocacy, and community service to help young people develop confidence, leadership, discipline, and commitment to their communities.
Mr. Baker embodies the purpose of this award through his dedication to the young people he serves. His example reminds us that mentorship can have a lasting impact and that sometimes the most meaningful form of leadership is simply being there, consistently, for someone who needs guidance and encouragement.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ronald Jeffrey Baker on receiving the New Guard Award and in thanking him for his service to our Nation and his continued investment in the next generation of leaders in Northeast Ohio.