[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 178 (Friday, November 10, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2158]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       U.S.S. ``SANTEE'' VETERANS

                                 ______


                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 10, 1995

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the gallant men of 
the U.S.S. Santee who served during World War II.
  Between 1942-45, the U.S.S. Santee served in several war zones and 
took part in numerous combat missions. Operating in the most advanced 
areas, the U.S.S. Santee and her attached air squadron frequently 
struck enemy targets while themselves under prolonged air attack. 
During the historic battle for Leyte Gulf, the Santee and her crew 
withstood successively, the first suicide plane attack of the war and a 
torpedo hit in her side while continuing flight operations and manning 
her antiaircraft guns.
  The U.S.S. Santee and her crew served the people of the United States 
with valor and honor throughout World War II. The carrier and her 
courageous crew compiled an impressive combat record during her service 
in the battle theaters of the world. Their valiant action against enemy 
forces was crucial in our victory over the tyrannical Axis forces.
  Each of us is indebted to these gallant men for their extraordinary 
heroism and devotion to duty.

                          ____________________