[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 26, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E943]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING COMMANDER DONALD GAITHER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BRAD ELLSWORTH

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 26, 2010

  Mr. ELLSWORTH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay honor and tribute 
to the late Commander Donald Gaither, a founder of the elite Navy 
SEALs, for his 27 years of service in the U.S. Navy.
   Commander Gaither was a native Hoosier and one we are all proud of. 
Commander Gaither was born in Daviess County, Indiana and graduated 
from Washington High School in 1937. While serving on his first 
submarine, the USS Swordfish, the submarine engine room was damaged 
during battle. In performance of his duties as chief motor machinist, 
he was awarded the Silver Star medal for distinguished submarine 
service.
   Commander Gaither's U.S. Navy career continued to be characterized 
by strong leadership and consistent work. As he rose through the ranks 
from apprentice seaman to commander, he was highly regarded by those 
who worked under him. During his time in the Navy, Commander Gaither 
served as an executive officer in Underwater Demolitions, a precursor 
to the Navy SEALs. After the Korean War, Congress considered 
eliminating the Underwater Demolitions Program. Commander Gaither came 
to Congress and persuaded Congress to keep the program. The Underwater 
Demolitions Program was later expanded into the Navy SEALs, making 
Commander Gaither one of the founding fathers of the Navy SEALs.
   Commander Gaither's success in the Navy is a tribute to what hard 
work and determination can accomplish. Commander Gaither spent 
countless hours studying and preparing for each Navy promotion he 
received. His work ethic was only matched by his strong leadership 
skills. Although Commander Gaither died of natural causes post-
retirement, his 27 years of service through three wars represent a 
lifetime commitment to serving our country.
   Today, I ask all members of Congress to join me as we honor the life 
of Commander Donald Gaither of the U.S. Navy, an accomplished war 
veteran who courageously served to better the lives of all American 
citizens.

                          ____________________