[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 149 (Thursday, October 6, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S6323]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb A. Nelson

  Mr. NELSON of Nebraska. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a true 
American hero, PO Caleb Nelson of Nebraska, who was tragically killed 
on October 1, 2011, in Zabul Province, Afghanistan.
  Caleb graduated from Navy boot camp 6 years ago to become a 
machinist's mate. However, he aspired to be the best-of-the-best and, 
in November 2006, graduated from SEAL qualification training and became 
a member of Naval Special Warfare Group Two. Caleb has been described 
by his commander as a cherished teammate and a gifted SEAL operator. 
This is certainly illustrated by the numerous awards and decorations he 
amassed during his short time in the service, including the Bronze Star 
with Valor, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, 
Expert Rifle ribbon and Expert Pistol ribbon. Before deploying to 
Afghanistan this past March, Caleb had deployed to Iraq in 2009.
  Not only was Caleb a dedicated combat veteran, he was a loving 
husband, father, and son. His father, Reverend Larry Nelson, remembers 
his son as a go-getter and a truly good person. His friends and 
neighbors tell a similar tale. Karen Wagner, Caleb's neighbor, 
remembers him as a wonderful kid who was always willing to help out, 
even if it came down to mundane things such as cleaning out the 
gutters.
  Caleb Nelson's life came to a cruel end when his vehicle hit an 
improvised explosive devise while his SEAL team was conducting mounted 
combat reconnaissance patrols. I pray that Caleb's family and friends 
find strength during this trying time and my condolences go out to 
them. Caleb's service and sacrifice, his heroism and selflessness will 
remain an inspiration for all of us.

                          ____________________