[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 57 (Tuesday, April 2, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO U.S. ARMY SPECIALIST JOSEPH P. COLLETTE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE STIVERS

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 2, 2019

  Mr. STIVERS. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people of 
Ohio's 15th Congressional District to honor and commemorate a husband, 
a father, a brother, a son, and a hero. United States Army Specialist 
Joseph P. Collette, of Lancaster, gave his life in the service of our 
nation on March 22, 2019.
  At age 29, Specialist Collette was fulfilling a goal he had held for 
over a decade: to deploy with the United States Army. As his soulmate 
and wife, Caela, tells it, following the tragedy of September 11, her 
husband felt the call to serve. As his time with the 242nd Ordnance 
Battalion, 71st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group was coming to an end, 
he desperately wanted to go on deployment.
  It is that level of bravery, selflessness, and commitment for which 
Specialist Collette will be remembered by both his loved ones and 
community. He was a genuine, laid back, funny young man who was beloved 
by many.
  A man of many special talents, he loved sharing his passion for 
cooking for others and challenging his friends in paintball matches and 
Pokemon battles. He loved spending time outdoors including running, 
snowboarding, and four-wheeling. But his priority in life was spending 
time with his friends and family.
  Like a pebble dropped in a pond, the ripples created by Specialist 
Collette's life and work are far-reaching. His legacy will live on in 
the memories of those who knew him and loved him: his wife, Caela; his 
children; Blair and Cody Collette; step-children Lena and Aria Scott; 
his parents, Joey Collette, and Theresa Mecionis and step-father, Jim 
Wickline; his siblings; Anthony, Camille, and Nicholas; and the rest of 
his extended family and loved ones.
  As a Brigadier General in the Ohio Army National Guard, I have had 
the distinct privilege to serve alongside outstanding men and women 
like Specialist Collette. I can say with absolute certainty that 
Lancaster, Ohio is undeniably a better place because of Specialist 
Collette, and our nation is a safer place because of his service. I am 
honored to celebrate his legacy, and I encourage my colleagues in the 
House of Representatives to join me in extending deepest condolences to 
his family, and in honoring his supreme sacrifice.

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