[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 72 (Friday, June 5, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1047]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO CAPTAIN AL GASTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 5, 1998

  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding 
patriot, United States Coast Guard Captain Al Gaston. This guy got a 
rather odd start for one who serves in the Coast Guard . . . he was 
drafted by the U.S. Army.
  He served two tours in Vietnam, left the Army, went to college, then 
joined the Coast Guard. During Captain Gaston's command of Group and 
Air Station Corpus Christi, I have been impressed with his efficiency, 
his straightforwardness, and his extraordinary ability to exercise good 
judgment in any situation.
  He was thoughtful about keeping my office appraised of situations as 
they occurred with regard to matters of security. He oversaw Operation 
Gulf Shield, the largest multi-agency counter-drug operation in the 
history of the United States.
  As a former law enforcement officer myself, I am deeply aware of the 
price illegal drugs exact from our communities and our nation. Captain 
Gaston and I share a commitment to keeping drugs off the streets of our 
country. This native of Cuba, who emigrated here with his family in 
1961, has carried out the policies of the United States in a 
professional manner; he is a true public servant.
  The Coastal Bend of South Texas will miss his commitment and 
integrity. He is dedicated to the principles of democracy. He is the 
sort of leader who shows respect for the men he commands. Captain 
Gaston leads by example.
  He worked incredibly hard, and with a cooperative spirit, with the 
agencies which formed Operation Gulf Shield. He is a talented diplomat 
and a dedicated family man. He is quick to give credit, wherever credit 
is due. He never fails to give out special awards to his men when they 
deserved it.
  Al Gaston is a man of high integrity and value. He goes the extra 
mile for his duty; and he does his job well. I hope all of you will 
join me in commending this outstanding public servant and dedicated 
Coastie.

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