[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 127 (Wednesday, October 2, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE MEMORY OF KENNETH MICHAEL GRAFF

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 1, 2002

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay 
tribute to 2 Lieutenant Kenneth Michael Graff, USMC, upon his passing 
on September 23, 2002 while attending Naval Aviation School at 
Pensacola Naval Air Station.
  Lt. Graff was born and raised in Dix Hills, NY, and was a 1996 
graduate of Half Hollow Hills High School East. In 2001, he graduated 
from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, (USMMA), located in the town of 
Kings Point, NY, on Long Island. Kenneth was revered by all of his 
peers because of his kind spirit and his overwhelming willingness to 
help others.
  Whether it was in the classroom, on the athletic field, or in the 
regiment, Lt. Graff excelled in every facet of the Academy. In the 
regiment, Kenneth held charge of an entire platoon in his company, as 
well as multiple petty officer and squad leader billets. He was a key 
member of both the Academy soccer and baseball teams, where he turned 
in outstanding All-Star and championship team performances. Kenneth was 
a fierce competitor, a strong student, an outstanding athlete, and a 
person who took pride in his regiment.
  Lt. Graff was a caring and thoughtful person. who could find common 
ground with any of the midshipmen, from his peers to his subordinates. 
He was secure in himself and focused on his goals. This dedication and 
focus is exemplified by his success at the Academy, his decision to 
accept a commission in the U.S. Marine Corps and his selection to Naval 
Flight School. These key events show the honor, integrity, drive, and 
patriotism of this young man.
  Mr. Speaker, this is a tribute to a young man who was at the 
beginning of a promising and fruitful life. Though his life was short, 
he was an outstanding young man brought up by loving parents, family 
and friends. We will miss him and the promises and potentials he 
represented. We need more young people of his upbringing and caliber to 
enrich our families, communities, and country. My condolences go to his 
parents, Orris and Kenneth Graff and his brother, Michael John. I 
salute the memory of their son and brother, 2nd Lt. Kenneth Michael 
Graff, USMC.




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