[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 15, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E918]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN HONOR OF CAPTAIN JEFF KUSS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 15, 2016

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Marine Corps 
Captain Jeff Kuss. Captain Kuss was a native of Durango, CO where he 
attended Durango High School and graduated from Ft. Lewis College with 
a degree in economics. His life was tragically cut short during a 
training accident on June 2, 2016 while he and the other Blue Angel 
pilots were practicing for an air show near Smyrna, Tennessee. Captain 
Kuss was a loving family man and is survived by his wife Christina 
Ferrarese Kuss, their two young children Calvin and Sloan, and his 
parents Michael and Janet of Durango.
   Captain Kuss possessed a passion for aviation which took root at a 
young age. After a great deal of hard work and perseverance, he became 
one of the Navy's most talented pilots, being selected in 2014 to join 
the elite Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. The Blue Angels are one 
of the world's most renowned squadrons, representing the men and women 
who serve in the nation's Armed Forces and showcasing the incredible 
training, skill and capability of our nation's elite military pilots. 
Since 1946, the Blue Angels have inspired patriotism and wonder in 
millions of fascinated spectators. Each pilot is hand-picked by current 
members of the squadron to join--a selection process that is a 
testament to the respect that his colleagues had for the talent and 
ability Captain Kuss possessed.
   The entire Durango community is incredibly proud of Captain Kuss for 
his service to our nation and what he was able to achieve. When he was 
brought home to rest in Durango citizens lined the streets to pay their 
respects to this fallen hero, a testament to Captain Kuss' service, 
deep ties to the community and a life well-lived. The host of active 
duty members that have and continue to pay tribute to Captain Kuss are 
a tribute to the many lives he impacted over the course of his career.
   Mr. Speaker, Captain Jeff Kuss exemplified the very best of 
Colorado's Third Congressional District and of the brave men and women 
who risk all in service to our nation each day. We honor his service 
and memory, and offer our condolences and prayers for his family and 
friends. May they find peace during this most difficult time.

                          ____________________