[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 106 (Thursday, August 4, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: August 4, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                         HONORING OF KARL KITT

  Mr. McCAIN. Mr. President, I just wanted to take a few minutes of the 
Senate's time to honor a great man who passed away recently in Arizona. 
I'm speaking about Karl Kitt. Karl is a legendary figure in the sport 
of wrestling who enjoyed a distinguished career as head coach at both 
the Naval and Air Force Academies.
  Karl will always be remembered as a man of great character, 
integrity, and compassion, particularly to the thousands of young 
people who are privileged to call him their mentor and friend. He was, 
in every way, a coach--not just in the sport which he loved so much, 
but in life for the young people about whom he cared so much.
  Karl leaves a legacy of achievement. Yes, there were many honors and 
championships. But more important to Karl was the human legacy--the 
people whose lives he touched and changed with the enduring qualities 
of a life well lived--hard work, integrity, mental toughness, and 
courage.
  A graduate of Southwestern State College in Oklahoma, Karl wrestled 
on two NAAU championship teams in 1934 and 1937, placed second in NCAA 
championships in 1936, third in NAAU in 1937, and earned All-American 
honors in his junior year.
  In 1942, Karl joined the Navy and was later assigned to the Naval 
Academy as assistant wrestling coach and a physical education 
instructor. He won the Hawaiian Open championship at 145 pounds and 
coached the U.S. Navy team to the Central Pacific Area championship. In 
1946, Karl returned to the Naval Academy and coached two national 
championship squads, in 1948 and 1952. He went on to join the U.S. Air 
Force Academy as head coach, where Karl further distinguished himself 
as one of the Nation's top wrestling coaches.
  Several decades have passed since I was privileged to be under Karl's 
tutelage at the Naval Academy. Like so many of those whose lives Karl 
has touched, I will never forget his influence.
  Karl Kitt's contributions to his Nation will never be forgotten. With 
his passing, we have lost an exceptional man who carried out his duties 
as a coach, as an American, and as a man with the greatest integrity, 
commitment and highest moral character. He has always been an 
inspiration to me, and I am proud and privileged to have known him.
  Our Great Nation is much better for having known Karl, and we are 
saddened by his passing. He's a dear friend and we will miss him. Our 
thoughts and prayers are with Katherine and the family. We thank you 
for your love, devotion, and service.

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