[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 91 (Thursday, June 17, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING ALAN W. MENDELSOHN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 2010

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Alan W. 
Mendelsohn of the Department of the Navy, who is retiring after more 
than thirty-two years of faithful service to our Nation, culminating in 
his role as Deputy Counsel of the Military Sealift Command.
  During his more than thirty-two years of federal service, twenty-five 
of which were spent as an attorney in the Office of General Counsel 
supporting the Military Sealift Command, Mr. Mendelsohn has 
consistently demonstrated the highest level of leadership and 
commitment to his country.
  In support of the ongoing war on terror, Mr. Mendelsohn provided 
distinguished legal services to ensure the award of numerous 
significant and complex procurements, and to resolve force protection 
and international law issues related to civilian mariners. In 
particular, Mr. Mendelsohn was instrumental in the award of the heavy 
lift contract to return the USS COLE to the United States for repairs 
following its damage from a terrorist attack. Mr. Mendelsohn also 
demonstrated outstanding initiative in serving as a business advisor to 
the Military Sealift Command in the implementation of a significant 
realignment that has ensured that the MSC can meet the increasing needs 
of the warfighter at a reduced cost.
  Mr. Mendelsohn established himself as a respected expert in the 
maritime industry and was frequently asked to conduct briefings for 
Members of Congress and their staff on issues associated with the 
maritime industry, including overseas ship repair and maritime labor 
practices. Mr. Mendelsohn also drafted a number of legislative 
proposals that were enacted into law.
  Alan Mendelsohn has exhibited integrity, vision, dedication and 
civility throughout his career. The commitment and sacrifice of 
Americans like him enrich our Nation. I am proud, Madam Speaker, to 
thank Alan Mendelsohn for his honorable service to our Nation. I wish 
him fair winds and following seas as he concludes a distinguished 
career of public service.

                          ____________________