[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 155 (Monday, October 17, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S6597]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO WARRANT OFFICER JAY T. LANE

 Mr. LEE. Mr. President. today we honor WO Jay T. Lane as a 
hero for an act of incredible bravery and courage. He has earned the 
Silver Star and I am humbled and honored to submit these words of deep 
gratitude and appreciation.
  In 1971, Jay was the pilot of a lift helicopter that was struck by 
two rocket-propelled grenades, the incredibly deadly weapon of choice 
for our enemies in Vietnam. It is a miracle that wasn't the end of Jay 
right then and there.
  Known as an extraordinarily skillful and talented pilot by his peers, 
Jay somehow safely landed what was left of the helicopter. Relatively 
speaking, Jay was OK, but one of the infantrymen on the vehicle was 
badly wounded.
  After removing his fellow soldier from the wreckage, Jay then went 
back into a burning helicopter under intense fire from the enemy to 
retrieve the first aid kit and began to care for his wounded friend.
  Knowing he needed to get to a safer area, Jay carried the wounded 
soldier on his back through the jungle and waited until help arrived.
  After the episode, Jay's superior officer wrote, ``His gallant 
actions and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest 
traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon 
himself, his unit, and the United States Military.''
  I couldn't agree more. Jay's bravery stands as a fine example of the 
character of our men and women who have fought for and defended this 
country. Those who wear the uniform today still display that same 
courage in far away places, just as Jay did that day in Vietnam.
  Without their sense of duty to our country, we would not enjoy the 
freedoms we have today. It is of the highest calling to provide for the 
common defense, as the preamble of our Constitution makes clear. I am 
awed by their sacrifice.
  Today, I am honored to congratulate Jay T. Lane for earning the 
Silver Star. It is well deserved.

                          ____________________