[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 31 (Wednesday, March 12, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S2218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO GILES NORRINGTON, USN

 Mr. SMITH of New Hampshire. Mr. President, I rise to pay 
tribute to a fellow Navy man, Capt. Giles Roderick Norrington, who will 
be reaching a milestone this Friday, March 14, 1997--the 24th 
anniversary of his release from captivity in North Vietnam.
  On May 5, 1968, Captain Norrington was shot down on a reconnaissance 
mission over North Vietnam while piloting his RA5C aircraft. He was 
held in various prisons in North Vietnam where he endured great 
physical and mental hardships as a POW for 5 years. During those 
difficult times, Captain Norrington and his fellow POW's never lost 
faith in their country. They persevered and they returned with honor. 
All Americans owe these brave men a great debt of gratitude for their 
sacrifices on our behalf.
  Indeed, Captain Norrington's service and loyalty to his country has 
been commendable, not just during his captivity in North Vietnam, but 
throughout his 34 years of active duty naval service. After his 
retirement from the Navy, he dedicated himself to his community as an 
outstanding member of the Rotary Club of Bailey's Crossroads in the 
State of Virginia. Recently, his fellow Rotarians expressed their 
continued support for Captain Norrington by electing him as their next 
vice-president.
  On Friday, March 14, 1997, Captain Norrington will be surrounded by 
his family and close friends who will be gathering to pay tribute to 
him. As a Vietnam veteran who also served in the Navy, I consider it an 
honor and privilege to share in this tribute, and I look forward to 
thanking Captain Norrington personally for his heartfelt service to our 
great Nation and to his own community.

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