[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 86 (Friday, May 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1091]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  PAYING TRIBUTE TO DOUGLAS K. RAMSEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JON C. PORTER

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 22, 2008

  Mr. PORTER. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to rise today 
to honor my good friend Douglas K. Ramsey by entering his name in the 
Congressional Record, the official record of the proceedings and 
debates of the United States Congress since 1873. Today I pay tribute 
to Douglas K. Ramsey, for his service to the United States of America 
during the Vietnam War.
  Mr. Ramsey is truly an American patriot. Following graduate studies 
at Harvard University, Mr. Ramsey entered the United States Air Force 
and served two years as a lieutenant in the field of communications 
intelligence.
  In 1960, following his service in the United States Air Force, Mr. 
Ramsey joined the United States Department of State and was assigned to 
the Bureau of Intelligence and Research. Mr. Ramsey arrived at his duty 
post in Saigon, Vietnam, on May 3, 1963. While working for the State 
Department's diplomatic effort in Vietnam, Mr. Ramsey served in a 
number of capacities, including Assistant Provincial Representative in 
Hau Nghia.
  On January 17, 1966, Mr. Ramsey was captured by a Viet Cong ambush 
party while transporting food and medical instruments to assist 
refugees and evacuees. During his time in Viet Cong custody, Mr. Ramsey 
suffered from malaria as well as neglect at the hands of his captors. 
He was finally released on February 12, 1973.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Douglas K. Ramsey. He is truly an 
unsung hero and an American patriot. In these times when we often 
recognize the members of our armed services for their sacrifice and 
dedication in defense of America, we must also pause and reflect upon 
the service of our men and women in the diplomatic corps, who also risk 
their lives in defense of our way of life. I thank Mr. Ramsey for his 
service to America and the Boulder City community, and wish him the 
best in his future endeavors. As we celebrate Memorial Day this 
weekend, I urge my fellow Nevadans to pay tribute to the service of our 
fellow citizens in defense of freedom and democracy.

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