House Joint Resolution 517 honors Captain Barry "Butch" Wilmore for his distinguished career with the U.S. Navy and NASA. A native of Tennessee, Captain Wilmore is a decorated astronaut who has completed three spaceflights, spending a total of 464 days in space, including a significant 286-day mission aboard the International Space Station as part of the Boeing Starliner's first crewed flight. His resilience and dedication during this challenging mission have inspired many, and he has maintained a strong connection to his home state throughout his career.

The resolution highlights Captain Wilmore's impressive background, including his service as a Navy officer and aviator, where he completed 21 combat missions during Operation Desert Storm. He is also recognized for his academic achievements at Tennessee Technological University, where he earned both bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering and was honored with several accolades, including the NCAA's Theodore Roosevelt Award. The resolution expresses gratitude for his contributions to space exploration and acknowledges the sacrifices made by his family, ultimately commending him for his commitment to duty and inspiring future generations.