[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 103 (Friday, July 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO LIEUTENANT GENERAL FRANCES C. WILSON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 10, 2009

  Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this time to honor a 
dedicated military educator, Lieutenant General Frances C. Wilson, who 
will be retiring as the President of the National Defense University, 
after having served this nation for 37 years in the United States 
Marine Corps.
  Culminating with her appointment as President of the National Defense 
University in 2006, General Wilson has, throughout her career, focused 
on professional education while working tirelessly to create an 
educated and well-trained class of American warriors. She has completed 
seven advanced training courses, including Harvard's Senior Executive 
Course in National Security, and earned four Master degrees along with 
a Doctorate in Education. Through these impressive academic 
undertakings, General Wilson acquired the knowledge and skills needed 
to prepare America's future officers for the complex contemporary 
world.
  Most impressively, General Wilson has relentlessly used her extensive 
education to increase the capabilities of our Armed Forces. She 
commanded the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion at Parris Island, 
directed the Manpower Management Division at Marine Corps Headquarters, 
and managed the military's Reserve forces while a member of the Reserve 
Force Policy Board. Through her leadership in these posts, General 
Wilson greatly advanced the professional development of the marines 
under her command and helped to mold a vibrant military education 
system.
  As President of the National Defense University, General Wilson 
understood the critical need for National Security Professionals within 
the Executive Branch. She spearheaded the development of the National 
Security Education Consortium and, recognizing the importance of 
international cooperation, established educational partnerships with 79 
nations, especially our NATO allies. Additionally, she added three 
Masters degrees to the University's curriculum while managing NDU's 
reaccredidation process. As a strong proponent of military education 
myself, I could not be more pleased with General Wilson's efforts or 
the many accolades she has received over her long career.
  General Wilson's leadership has strengthened both the Marine Corps 
and the professional military education system. As a staunch believer 
in continuous education for professional soldiers, I am proud of her 
commitment to lifelong study and the development of America's warriors. 
I trust that Members of the House will join me in congratulating 
General Wilson for her contributions to the United States of America.

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