[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 53 (Tuesday, April 12, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E700]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING CAPTAIN ROBERT J. HILLERY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DARRELL E. ISSA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2011

  Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable 
achievements and honorable military service of Captain Robert J. 
Hillery in the United States Marine Corps. I offer Captain Hillery my 
sincerest thanks for his eight years of dedicated service in protecting 
our nation and safeguarding its future.
  The son of a fellow Marine, beginning his military career at the U.S. 
Naval Academy, Captain Hillery graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of 
Science in Mechanical Engineering. Upon graduating, he was commissioned 
a Second Lieutenant in May of 2003.
  Following The Basic School and Logistics Officer Course, Captain 
Hillery was assigned to Truck Company, HQBN, 1st Marine Division in 
July of 2004. During this tour, he served as the H&S Platoon Commander 
during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) II-2 at Camp Blue Diamond in 
Ramadi. He and his platoon conducted hundreds of critical resupply 
convoys throughout the Al Anbar Province. Upon returning home from this 
deployment, he was re-assigned as the 3rd Platoon Commander and 
deployed again during OIF III-2 in Haditha while being attached to 3rd 
Battalion 1st Marines. Following his second deployment, Captain Hillery 
served as the Commander of the Remain Behind Element and Company 
Executive Officer for Truck Company.
  In June of 2007, he transferred to Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD), 
San Diego where he served as the Assistant Operations Officer for three 
months, Range Company Executive Officer for nine months, and H&S 
Company Commander for 25 months.
  Among his many achievements, Captain Hillery's personal decorations 
include the Navy Commendation Medal with Gold Star and Navy/Marine 
Corps Achievement Medal.
  Furthermore, I applaud his efforts to use his passion for distance 
running to raise $43,000 for the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. Having 
completed 3 ultra marathons, 25 marathons, 18 half marathons, 2 
Ultraman triathlons, 3 Ironman distance triathlons including the world 
championship in Kona, HI, in 2009, along with numerous shorter distance 
races--there is no question that Captain Hillery's triumphs are nothing 
short of remarkable. Accordingly, in August of 2010, Captain Hillery 
was selected for the distinguished recognition of Marine Corps Athlete 
of the Year.
  I offer Captain Hillery my congratulations for his accomplishments 
and sincere gratitude for his military service. Mr. Speaker, I ask you 
to please join me in honoring all the brave men and women who have 
served in the United States Armed Forces, and the admirable 
achievements of Captain Robert Hillery.

                          ____________________