[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 132 (Thursday, September 8, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1561]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     MEMORIAL TRIBUTE FOR LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JONAS BENTON KELSALL

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                           HON. KAY GRANGER-

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 8, 2011

  Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant Commander 
Jonas Benton Kelsall who died August 6th in Wardak Province, 
Afghanistan. LCDR Kelsall was a patriot and a hero who made the 
ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be 
greatly missed.
  LCDR Kelsall was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous 
awards, including the Legion of Merit, three Bronze Star Medals with 
Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint 
Service Commendation Medal with Valor, three Navy and Marine Corps 
Commendation Medals, two Joint Service Achievement Medals, two Combat 
Action Ribbons, two Presidential Unit Citations, three Afghanistan 
Campaign Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service 
Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations.
  LCDR Kelsall is survived by his loving family, friends, and 
teammates. His nation owes LCDR Kelsall an enormous debt of gratitude. 
We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his 
country.
  I wish to extend my condolences to LCDR Kelsall's family, friends, 
and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting 
impact on his grateful nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

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