[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 21 (Tuesday, February 4, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E158]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JACK WYATT

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 4, 2014

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an 
individual whose dedication and contributions to our country, state and 
community are exceptional. We have been fortunate to have dynamic and 
dedicated leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and 
talent to make their communities, and country, a better place to live 
and work. Jack Wyatt is one of these individuals. Jack's many 
accomplishments are wide ranging, as he has made his mark as a 
successful businessman, a decorated member of the military and an 
active supporter of the community. On February 4, 2014, Jack will be 
honored by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors for all he has 
done.
  Jack is the true definition of an American patriot and hero. A 35 
year veteran, Jack represented his country proudly, serving in four 
theaters of war during his long career. He has truly seen it all, being 
shot down, and eventually rescued, while in Vietnam. It is no surprise 
that he holds commendations from five former United State's Presidents. 
Jack has since retired as a Captain in the Navy Reserve, though his 
advice and expertise remain highly sought after. In the early 1990's 
Jack turned down an Admiralship in Washington D.C., as it meant that he 
would have to move from his beloved city of Corona, California, out 
east to the Pentagon.
  From 2000 to 2001, Jack was assigned to lead a special project by the 
Navy's Chief of Information, Thomas Jurkowski, in conjunction with his 
tasking by the Secretary of the Navy, Richard Danzig, and Secretary of 
Defense, Donald Rumsfeld. The project, ``Vision 21,'' was created to 
develop a ``lessons learned'' program following Operation Desert Storm 
and Operation Allied Force. Due to the success of the program, Jack and 
many members of his team were awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. 
More recently, Jack became an advisor to the United States Secretary of 
the Navy on strategy planning, international affairs, and policy, and 
also served as Public Affairs Advisor to the Commander of the Naval 
Reserve Force of Western Region, San Diego.
  Not only has Jack served his country proudly, he has also contributed 
to his community's economic and developmental growth. After retiring 
from active duty, Jack began a long career, spanning 28 years, with 
Southern California Edison. His focus in management and public policy 
development garnered the company increased success. Jack went on to 
become Regional Director for the Inland Empire from 1985 to 1999, and 
his responsibility covered three counties and 56 cities, with an annual 
revenue base of $3.5 billion dollars.
  With his influence and knowledge of the industry, Jack took a leap of 
faith and started his own company, Strategic Connections, Inc. (SCI) in 
1999. This organization of professionals and specialists advises 
executives and public officials on a wide array of utility issues 
including service, leadership and strategy. With Jack's guidance, the 
company has grown to be a leader in the industry within Southern 
California.
  I have come to know Jack well through many years working together on 
a variety of projects in California. I can personally attest to his 
incredible work-ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude. In light 
of all Jack has done for Southern California and our country, it is 
only fitting that he be honored by the Board of Supervisors for his 
more than 30 years of dedicated commitment to our community. Jack's 
honorable service and tireless passion for public service has 
contributed immensely to the betterment of our country, state and 
community. I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American 
and friend. I know that many individuals are grateful for his service 
and salute him on this great milestone.

                          ____________________