[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 147 (Tuesday, October 4, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S6065]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


     Navy Master-At-Arms Petty Officer First Class John Douangdara

  Mr. JOHANNS. Madam President, I rise today to honor a fallen hero--
Navy Master-At-Arms Petty Officer First Class John Douangdara of South 
Sioux City, Nebraska. Petty Officer Douangdara was part of the East 
Coast Based SEAL team on the Chinook helicopter that was downed by 
enemy fire in Afghanistan on August 6, 2011.
  He was a dog handler for the SEAL team. He and his combat assault dog 
led their unit on patrols in order to expose dangerous explosives and 
hidden enemy combatants. He and 29 fellow servicemembers, and his 
combat assault dog Bart paid the ultimate price in support of Operation 
Enduring Freedom. As a dog handler, the East Coast Based SEAL team 
entrusted their lives to him and to his dog. His first dog Toby was 
killed in action in Iraq. His second dog Bart would die with him on the 
helicopter.
  The name ``Douangdara'' can be difficult to pronounce, so his Navy 
comrades soon gave him the call sign ``Jet.'' Members of his unit 
remember him for being trustworthy and always positive. The decorations 
and badges earned during his distinguished service speak to his 
dedication and his skill. He received the Purple Heart, the Defense 
Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star with ``V'' Device, the Joint 
Service Commendation Medal with ``V'' Device, the Army Commendation 
Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation (2 awards), the Good Conduct 
Medal (2 awards), the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan 
Service Medal (3 awards), the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on 
Terrorism Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3 awards), the 
Overseas Service Deployment Ribbon (3 awards), the Rifle Marksmanship 
Medal, and the Pistol Marksmanship Medal.
  I am told Petty Officer Douangdara had a joyful disposition and a 
deep sense of commitment to American ideals that were evident to 
everyone he encountered. John's high school friends and teachers recall 
his sense of humor coupled with a competitive desire to win. 
Participating on the high school mock trial team was one way he 
directed his very considerable energy.
  John was also about helping others. It was not a surprise to those 
who knew him that his energy, focus, and empathetic nature would lead 
him to military service and the challenge of working with the Navy 
SEALs.
  John belongs to a very special family. His mother and father escaped 
from Laos 31 years ago and emigrated to the United States. They settled 
in South Sioux City, Nebraska, where they grew and nurtured a very 
respected family. The South Sioux City community honored John with a 
special memorial service on September 25, 2011. They also named a local 
park after John.
  I know his community and Nebraskans as a whole are enormously proud 
of his service. I am confident they will provide his family with 
comfort during this very difficult time.
  Today, as we bow our heads with the Douangdara family, I ask that God 
be with all those serving in uniform and that He bring them home 
safely.
  Madam President, I yield the floor, and I suggest the absence of a 
quorum.
  The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. The clerk will call the roll.
  The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent the order for the 
quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Tester). Without objection, it is so 
ordered.

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