[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 64 (Friday, May 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E834]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 RECOGNIZING CLAYTON M. MEALER ON HIS APPOINTMENT TO THE U.S. MILITARY 
                                ACADEMY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 16, 2002

  Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to 
recognize my constituent, Clayton M. Mealer of Defiance, Ohio, who 
recently accepted his appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West 
Point.
  Clayton will soon graduate from Defiance Senior High School. During 
his high school career, he has maintained a high grade point average, 
and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is an accomplished 
athlete, earning a varsity letter in football. And, he has clearly 
demonstrated his civic awareness, generously volunteering his time as a 
tutor, and in support of Habitat for Humanity and Clean the City Parks.
  Clayton Mealer can be very proud of his many accomplishments. He is a 
credit to his family, his school, and his community. By accepting his 
appointment, Clayton is accepting a unique challenge.
  The Academy is the pinnacle of leadership development for the United 
States Army. As a member of the U.S. Corps of Cadets, he will face a 
most demanding academic curriculum and physical regimen. He will live, 
study and prepare in an environment where strong leadership thrives, 
individual achievement is expected, and personal integrity is demanded.
  Mr. Speaker, General John W. Vessey, Jr. once wrote, ``The Nation's 
ability to remain free and at peace depends in no small measure on 
whether we will continue to inspire our youth to serve.''
  I am confident that Clayton Mealer has the character and ability to 
excel at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. I ask my colleagues 
to join me in wishing him well as he begins his very important service 
to our nation.

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