[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 73 (Wednesday, May 13, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S2846]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CONGRATULATING CAPTAIN (DR.) CLAYTON K. GROSS

  Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today, I wish to congratulate Captain 
(Dr.) Clayton K. Gross on receiving the Congressional Gold Medal, 
honoring his role as an American Fighter Ace during World War II. 
American Fighter Aces are pilots who shot down five or more enemy 
planes in aerial combat during time of war. It gives me great pleasure 
to honor Captain Gross for his achievements and his bravery in serving 
the United States of America.
  Captain Gross is credited with six and a half confirmed air victories 
and even shot down a Messerschmitt 262, the world's first operational 
jet fighter. He flew a North American P-51 Mustang he named ``Live 
Bait'' when he earned his Ace status. Captain Gross is a founding 
member of the American Fighter Aces Association and served as president 
of the organization from 1978 to 1979. He was also one of four former 
fighter pilots, representing all American Fighter Aces, present when 
President Barack Obama signed the American Fighter Aces Congressional 
Gold Medal Act. Captain Gross's dedication to his country and to his 
fellow American Fighter Aces is invaluable.
  Captain Gross's service to the United States of America earns him a 
place among the heroes who have so valiantly defended our freedom. I 
offer my greatest appreciation to Captain Gross for his courageous 
contributions to this great Nation. His legacy as an American Fighter 
Ace will continue on for years to come.
  As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, I recognize 
that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these brave 
individuals who serve our Nation but also to ensure they are cared for 
when they return home. I remain committed to upholding this promise for 
our veterans and servicemembers in Nevada and throughout the Nation. 
Captain Gross's sacrifice warrants only the greatest respect and care 
in return.
  During his service, Captain Gross demonstrated professionalism, 
commitment to excellence, and dedication to the highest standards of 
the American Fighter Aces. His accolade is well deserved. I am both 
humbled and honored by his service and am proud to call him a fellow 
Nevadan. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Captain 
Clayton Kelly Gross for all of his accomplishments. I wish him well in 
all of his future endeavors.

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