[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 111 (Thursday, July 31, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S8620]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    TRIBUTE TO CAPT. FREDRIC G. LEEDER, USN--PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER

 Mr. GLENN. Mr. President, I rise today to commend Capt. 
Frederic G. Leeder, USN, upon his retirement from the United States 
Navy, after 28 years of distinguished and dedicated service to our 
nation.
  Captain Leeder is a native son of Ohio and graduated from Ohio State 
University with a degree in journalism. Following his graduation from 
college, Captain Leeder was commissioned as an Ensign. After his 
graduation from the officers' program at the Defense Department's 
Information School, he then assumed a variety of public-affairs 
assignments overseas and stateside. His tours of duty included a North 
Atlantic Treaty Organization staff assignment and four joint-service 
assignments.
  Most recently, Captain Leeder served as Staff Director for Public 
Affairs at Headquarters, Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) in Alexandria, 
Virginia. During his three years at DLA as principal spokesperson, 
Captain Leeder demonstrated unbounded stamina, keen insight, and 
exemplary professionalism. Possessing exceptional skill, foresight and 
composure, Captain Leeder dealt with representatives of the print and 
electronic media, engaging them on his terms. In just one example, last 
fall he competently worked with investigative reporters from a 
prominent news magazine and a major television network to ensure 
accuracy and fairness of nationwide reporting on a sensitive issue 
having significant national security implications. With his intelligent 
foresight and strong voice of reason, Captain Leeder, advised three 
different DLA directors, each from a different service I might add, on 
how to navigate through the often perilous waters of media and 
community relations
  Captain Leeder succeeded in striking that delicate balance of 
ensuring the American public's right to know and protecting the public 
interest throughout his career. An accomplished communicator, he truly 
has earned the gratitude of thousands of military families that have 
found comfort and reassurance in his words when loved ones serving on 
distant seas and shores have been in harm's way. Captain Leeder has 
served his country for 28 years with valor, loyalty, and integrity, 
winning the personal and professional respect of all who come in 
contact with him. Captain Fred Leeder is a master of his craft.
  On the occasion of Captain Leeder's retirement from the U.S. Navy, I 
offer my congratulations and thanks to this esteemed son of the Buckeye 
state, and wish him well in his future pursuits. 

                          ____________________