[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 138 (Friday, August 23, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1069-E1070]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING AUGUST VETERAN OF THE MONTH KEN PENNINGTON

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                            HON. ROSS SPANO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 23, 2019

  Mr. SPANO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran 
Warrant Officer One Kenneth A. Pennington, U.S. Navy Retired.
  Mr. Pennington enlisted in the US Navy in 1937. After spending time 
in the European theater, he was assigned to the newly commissioned 
aircraft carrier, USS Princeton. After 9 major engagements in the 
Pacific, the Princeton was sunk during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 
October 24, 1944, resulting in 108 casualties and over 200 injured. 
Many consider this battle is to be the largest naval battle of World 
War II and possibly the largest in history.
  In 1946, Mr. Pennington was assigned as deck chief on the USS Midway 
aircraft carrier, and eventually saw action in the Korean conflict 
while aboard the USS Mount McKinley. He continued to serve over 30 
years until 1967, and was recognized for his commitment, bravery, and 
heroism with 10 medals during that time.
  This past March, Mr. Pennington celebrated his 100th birthday. 
However, it is our community and I who celebrate him, his career, and 
lifetime of service. Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude for all 
you have endured to protect our freedoms and faith, one that brought 
you through the darkest days of war. I thank him for blessing us with 
his life of sacrifice, and am humbled to honor him before the United 
States Congress.

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