[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 138 (Thursday, September 7, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1732]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                TRIBUTE TO THE U.S.S. ``SANTA BARBARA''

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                        HON. ANDREA H. SEASTRAND

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 7, 1995
  Mrs. SEASTRAND. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to pay tribute to a U.S. 
Navy vessel that is celebrating its 25th year of distinguished service. 
Like the beautiful city in the district I represent, the AE28-class 
ship proudly bares the name of the third century martyr Santa Barbara--
the protector against lightning, thunder, and flame. Since being 
commissioned in 1970 the U.S.S. Santa Barbara has earned a reputation 
as the Atlantic Fleet's finest, fast-attack AE. The distinctions and 
honors bestowed upon her include three Battle Efficiency ``E'' Awards 
won in 1979, 1989, and 1993. Other honors she has received include the 
Golden Anchor Award, the Maritime Warfare Excellence Award, the 
Engineering/Survivability Award, the Logistics Management Excellence 
Award, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for her performance during 
her 1992-93 Mediterranean deployment.
  During its commissioning ceremony, then Santa Barbara Mayor Gerald 
Firestone offered the U.S.S. Santa Barbara a safe port and hearty 
welcome if the ship would ever visit the west coast. On behalf of the 
people of the 22d Congressional District, I would like to say that 25 
years later that the welcome would be heartier than ever and the port 
safe as always.


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