[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 171 (Saturday, November 22, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2398]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING PAUL J. SIMMERT OF NORWICH, CONNECTICUT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ROB SIMMONS

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 21, 2003

  Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cadet Paul J. Simmert 
of Norwich, Connecticut who was recently named Chief Petty Officer of 
the Nautilus 571 Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps.
  At only 17 years of age, Paul will be in command of 50 cadets, 
ranging in age from 11 to 17 years. This appointment follows tremendous 
hard work and dedication, including the completion of regulation U.S. 
Navy courses and many months of training throughout the country over 
the past 4 years.
  Having a father in the Navy inspired Paul's interest in serving his 
country at a very young age. At 12, he took the first steps toward what 
will be a very successful career in the U.S. Navy by joining the U.S. 
Sea Cadet Corps. Through this program, Paul has been able to take on 
important responsibilities and learn the ropes of the United States 
Navy.
  Chief Petty Officer Simmert is an exemplary young man and is highly 
deserving of this great honor and responsibility. I am most proud to 
have him serving his peers in this capacity. Now more than ever, we 
need young men like Paul to take the lead in protecting the freedoms 
that this great country was founded on for future generations.
  Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the Members of the House of 
Representatives to join me in congratulating Chief Petty Officer Paul 
J. Simmert in receiving this prestigious award and thanking him for the 
contributions he makes to his country.

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