[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 206 (Thursday, December 19, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1617]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                  HONORING ENSIGN JOSHUA KALEB WATSON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARTHA ROBY

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 19, 2019

  Mrs. ROBY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
sacrifices of Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, who was tragically killed on 
December 6, 2019, at Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida.
   Born and raised in Enterprise, Alabama, Kaleb was a natural leader 
and devoted servant to his community from an early age. Inspired by his 
uncle's service in the Gulf War, Kaleb knew at a very early age since 
childhood that he wanted to serve his country in the military.
   Kaleb continued to demonstrate his leadership skills at Enterprise 
High School, where he participated in JROTC, National Honor Society, 
French Honor Society, and captain of the rifle team. It was through his 
experience on the rifle team that he learned of the opportunities at 
the United States Naval Academy. Kaleb was accepted to attend the 
prestigious Naval Academy upon graduating from high school in 2014. 
Kaleb continued to serve his hometown community after graduation by 
volunteering his time to the rifle team during school breaks.
   At the Naval Academy, Kaleb set his sights on becoming a Navy pilot, 
and he excelled. A dedicated student, Kaleb majored in mechanical 
engineering and was named to the Dean's list and Commandant's Honors 
list. Outside of the classroom, he was a member of the Academy's rifle 
team, served as a wrestling coach, and was a small-arms instructor. 
Under his leadership as captain of the rifle team, the Naval Academy 
won its first victory over West Point in a decade.
   After commissioning, Kaleb served a temporary assignment at the 
Naval Academy's Physical Education department until last month, when he 
reported to Pensacola to begin flight training. On December 6, Kaleb 
made the ultimate sacrifice for his country when an active shooter 
opened fire at the Naval Air Station. Without hesitation, Kaleb sprang 
into action. After being wounded himself, Kaleb was able to locate 
first responders to identify the shooter, undoubtedly preventing many 
more causalities that day.
   Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to join the people of Alabama's 
Second Congressional District, the Enterprise community, and the Watson 
family to honor Kaleb today. He is remembered by his peers and many 
others as a kind friend, encouraging teammate, and generous volunteer. 
Kaleb died a hero, and his courageous actions and service to this 
nation will not soon be forgotten as we continue to share his story of 
selflessness and valor. May God bless his family and community as we 
mourn the loss of Joshua Kaleb Watson, and may God bless all of our 
military members who continue to defend and protect the United States 
of America.

                          ____________________