[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 117 (Friday, August 2, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S9549]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO REAR ADM. ROBERT J. NATTER, U.S. NAVY CHIEF OF LEGISLATIVE 
                                AFFAIRS

  Mr. LOTT. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to recognize and say 
farewell to an outstanding Naval officer and dear friend, Rear Adm. 
Robert J. Natter, who has served with distinction for the past 33 
months as the Navy's Chief of Legislative Affairs. It is a privilege 
for me to recognize his many outstanding achievements and commend him 
for the superb service he has provided this legislative body, the Navy 
and our great Nation.
  A native of Trussville, AL, Admiral Natter comes from a patriotic 
family of seven boys and two girls that has contributed immeasurably to 
our Nation's defense. All seven boys have served as commissioned 
officers in our Armed Forces--six in the Navy and one in the Air Force. 
Four graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, one was commissioned 
through Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps, and one attended Officer 
Candidate School. Two are currently Navy admirals. I salute this family 
who has served our Nation so well.
  Admiral Natter enlisted in the Naval Reserve at the age of 17 as a 
seaman recruit. Following 1 year of enlisted service and 4 years at the 
Naval Academy, he was graduated and commissioned an Ensign in June 
1967.
  Admiral Natter's service at sea includes department head tours in a 
Coastal Minesweeper and Frigate, and Executive Officer tours in two 
Amphibious Tank Landing Ships and a Spruance Destroyer. He 
distinguished himself in combat as Officer-in-Charge of a Naval Special 
Warfare detachment in Vietnam. He later commanded the guided missile 
destroyer U.S.S. Chandler and guided missile cruiser U.S.S. Antietam. 
He has been the recipient of many awards and commendations including 
the Silver Star and Purple Heart.
  As the Navy's Chief of Legislative Affairs, Admiral Natter has 
provided timely support and accurate information on Navy plans and 
programs. Working closely with the United States Congress, he helped 
maintain the best-trained, best-equipped, and best prepared Navy in the 
world. His strong leadership provided a legacy of innovative, 
affordable and technologically superior naval systems and platforms for 
those who will serve in the Navy decades after he steps down as the 
Chief of Legislative Affairs. His consummate leadership, integrity, and 
tireless energy serve as an example for us all.
  Mr. President, Bob Natter, his wife Claudia, and daughters Kelly, 
Kendall, and Courtney have made many sacrifices during his 30-year 
naval career. They have made significant contributions to the 
outstanding naval forces upon which our country relies so heavily. 
Admiral Natter is a great credit to both the Navy and the country he so 
proudly serves. As this highly decorated combat veteran now departs to 
take command of the United States Seventh Fleet, I call upon my 
colleagues from both sides of the aisle to wish him fair winds and 
following seas. He is a sailor's sailor.

                          ____________________