[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 125 (Monday, September 30, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1693]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING REAR ADMIRAL LESLIE GEHRES

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THOMAS M. REYNOLDS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 26, 2002

  Mr. REYNOLDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute a true American 
hero, Rear Admiral Leslie Gehres. A native of Newark in Wayne County, 
NY, Admiral Gehres will be honored by his community on Saturday, 
September 28, 2002, with the dedication of a monument and memorial 
exhibit at Newark High School.
  Admiral Gehres began his long and illustrious naval career in 1914, 
when he enlisted in the New York Naval Militia. When his unit was 
mobilized on April 6, 1917, he was appointed to the rank of Ensign, and 
transferred to the regular navy, following completion of course work at 
the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD.
  Admiral Gehres became a Naval Aviator in 1927, and in 1929, trained 
and led ``The Nine High Hats,'' a prestigious nine-plane acrobatic 
formation. After the outbreak of World War II, Admiral Gehres took 
command of Patrol Wing 4, and took part in the Aleutians campaigns. He 
was responsible for driving the Japanese out of the Aleutian Islands, 
and for his services, earned the Army's Distinguished Flying Cross, 
Legion of Merit, and Gold Star in lieu of a second Legion of Merit. He 
was also promoted to the rank of Commodore for his leadership in that 
campaign, a rank that had not been given to any naval officer since 
Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry in the War of 1812.
  Following his detachment from Fleet Wing 4, Admiral Gehres assumed 
command of the USS Franklin in the Pacific Fleet. Admiral Gehres 
courageously and successfully returned that carrier to the Naval Yard 
in New York, after being heavily damaged by Japanese forces. ``For 
extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the USS Franklin,'' read 
his Navy citation, Admiral Gehres was awarded the Navy Cross.
  Mr. Speaker, Rear Admiral Leslie Edward Gehres passed away in 1975, 
but he will now be forever remembered for his heroism and selfless 
service to his nation, and I ask that this Congress join me in saluting 
his proud career, and in thanking the community of Newark, NY, for 
honoring his leadership and valor.

                          ____________________