[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 154 (Friday, November 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2432]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         IN MEMORY OF ADMIRAL BARRY K. ATKINS, U.S. NAVY (RET.)

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ERIC CANTOR

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 18, 2005

  Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Admiral Barry 
K. Atkins of Richmond, Virginia, who passed away on Tuesday, November 
15, 2005. Admiral Atkins spent a lifetime in service to his country and 
should be honored today.
  In 1932 Admiral Atkins graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and 
began his distinguished career as a Naval officer. During World War II, 
Admiral Atkins took over command of the USS Melvin, a Navy destroyer. 
Admiral Atkins and his men were stationed in the Pacific and 
participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippines. In one 
engagement, the Battle of Surigao Strait, the USS Melvin fired a 
torpedo that hit the Japanese battleship Fuso, splitting it in half and 
eventually sinking it. According to historical reports, the USS Melvin 
was the only destroyer to sink a battleship in World War II. For his 
heroism and leadership aboard the USS Melvin, Admiral Atkins was 
awarded the Navy Cross. In 1959, Admiral Atkins retired after 27 years 
of faithful service to the U.S. Navy.
  Admiral Atkins' bravery during the Battle of Leyte Gulf helped change 
the course of our Nation's history and I am truly grateful for his 
leadership and unwavering courage aboard the USS Melvin. I hope that 
you will join me in honoring the life and service of Admiral Barry K. 
Atkins and offering our most sincere condolences to his family and 
friends.

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