[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 22, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E653-E654]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JOEL JEAN COURREGES, SR.

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                           HON. DEREK KILMER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 22, 2019

  Mr. KILMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Joel 
Jean Courreges, Sr., a decorated veteran and Kitsap County community 
member, who passed away on May 10, 2019.
   Joel was born in France on March 15, 1950. He attended Roosevelt 
High School in Seattle and immediately enlisted in the Marines after 
graduation. Through his decorated career of military service, Joel 
attained the rank of Sergeant and served two tours as a mortarman in 
Phu Bai and Danang, where he was wounded. Returning home from Vietnam, 
he married Kandace K. Hove and had two children, Joel Jr. and Danielle. 
In 1973, he met his current wife, Carol, and they were married, 
expanding his family to include Deanna and Tami.
   After his time in the military, Joel continued to seek ways to serve 
his community and contribute to its growth and vitality. He spent 
thirty-six years as a truck operator before retiring in 2006. Not long 
after his retirement, Joel became a service officer for the Bremerton 
chapter of Disabled American Veterans, eventually taking on the role of 
Commander.
   Through his work with Disabled American Veterans, Joel served his 
community diligently by outreaching, connecting, and supporting 
veterans across Kitsap County. His work earned praise and numerous 
accolades during his tenure, including a Golden Tennis Shoe award from 
Senator Patty Murray.
   In addition to his work with Disabled American Veterans, Joel also 
served on the Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board, helping shape the 
County's efforts in supporting its many veterans who call our region 
home.
   Madam Speaker, Joel set an example for all of us who strive to serve 
and better our communities. Even in the face of increasing health 
hardship, Joel maintained a steadfast commitment to working on behalf 
of veterans and we are better off because of his great work.
   I am honored to recognize Joel Jean Courreges, Sr.'s great life and 
legacy of service and send my very best to his family, friends, and the 
staff of the Bremerton chapter of Disabled American Veterans.

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