[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 23, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E202]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                   IN HONOR OF CAPTAIN DANIEL P. MACK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE SESTAK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 23, 2010

  Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor a man who has 
dedicated his life to courageous and exemplary service to our Nation, 
Captain Daniel P. Mack of the United States Navy.
  Through his 27-year career, Captain Mack consistently demonstrated 
his dedication, diligence, and commitment to our great Nation. The son 
of John Francis Mack, a World War II veteran, and Helen Marie Conboy 
Mack, he was born February 18, 1960. He graduated from the Naval 
Academy in 1982. After being commissioned, Captain Mack attended 
Nuclear Power School and Naval Submarine School and reported aboard the 
USS John Adams. After completing six deterrent patrols over a period of 
three years, he joined the staff of the Naval Academy, serving as 24th 
Company Officer and Executive Assistant to the Commandant of 
Midshipmen. In 1990, he reported to the USS Puffer, which completed 
Pacific and Arctic patrols during his time aboard, and he was awarded 
the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
  In 1995, Captain Mack graduated with the highest distinction from the 
College of Command and Staff at the Naval War College. After earning 
his Master's Degree in International Relations and National Security 
Affairs, he was assigned to Executive Officer duty aboard the USS 
Phoenix. He completed Phoenix's final deployment, during which she 
earned the 1996 Fleet Silver Anchor Award and a Meritorious Unit 
Commendation. Captain Mack then returned to the Naval Submarine School, 
where he served as Prospective Executive Officer instructor.
  In January 2000, Captain Mack assumed command of USS Houston. Under 
his guidance, the boat earned the CINCPACFLT Retention Award, for 
outstanding personnel development and the highest retention rate in the 
Pacific.
  After completing his tour as Commanding Officer, Captain Mack served 
as Deputy Commander of Submarine Squadron 11. He then served on the 
Joint Staff in the Strategic Plans and Policy Division. Captain Mack 
also served as Nuclear Policy Division Chief and as the Nuclear Weapons 
Council advisor to the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He 
also reported to the Navy Staff where he held several vital positions.
  In 2007, Captain Mack assumed command of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen 
and Twenty where he oversaw the development and training of sixteen 
separate submarine crews.
  Even by the military's high standards, Captain Mack's record of 
achievement stands out. His personal awards include the Defense 
Superior Service Medal, awarded for ``superior meritorious service in a 
position of significant responsibility'', the Legion of Merit, awarded 
for ``exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of 
outstanding services,'' as well as multiple awards of the Meritorious 
Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and 
Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
  While the Navy is losing one of its finest officers after his 
retirement this month, Captain Mack's legacy will continue to benefit 
the United States Navy for years to come. Whether as a Company Officer 
at the Naval Academy, Prospective Executive Officer instructor at Naval 
Submarine School, or as Commander of Submarine Squadrons Sixteen and 
Twenty, Captain Mack's career has deeply and positively affected the 
lives of countless Shipmates--improving their futures as Sailors and 
citizens.
  I salute his committed service to our Nation. Moreover, I wish him 
and his three magnificent children Maggie, Daniel and Timothy great 
happiness as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. I am 
certain that Captain Mack will remain successful and productive in 
every future endeavor.

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