[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 102 (Friday, June 11, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E626-E627]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING AND CONGRATULATING REAR ADMIRAL JOHN MENONI

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. MICHAEL F.Q. SAN NICOLAS

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 11, 2021

  Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
congratulate Rear Admiral John Menoni on his exemplary leadership as 
Commander of Joint Region Marianas.
  As the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command representative for our region, Rear 
Admiral Menoni has embodied a leadership that truly speaks to the best 
of our human qualities and is critical to efforts made in overcoming 
the present global pandemic, facing future adversity, and effectively 
moving our communities and Nation forward.
  Over the course of his 18-month assignment to Guam, the Commonwealth 
of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and 
the Republic of Palau, he and his team transcended in their greatest 
responsibility to preserve the mission of ensuring our Nation's 
security. Alongside their dedication to defending our Constitution, 
preserving human rights, and encouraging opportunities for our allies 
and partners around the world, they embedded a revitalized relationship 
between military and civilian populations across the region.
  Rear Admiral John Menoni collaborated closely with the Government of 
Guam and other important community members for a comprehensive COVID-19 
response, which greatly contributed to the health, safety, and recovery 
of the crew of the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt. He worked tirelessly to 
cement an open forum for locals to identify their concerns and work 
together with the defense administration to address them. From 
establishing open lines of communication with local leaders to 
introducing a cultural sensitivity training program for all incoming 
Department of Defense parties, he has been a formidable force in 
cultivating greater understanding among all those who call our islands 
home and elevating our collective quality of life.
  With recognitions such as three Legions of Merit, two Defense 
Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Strike-Flight Medals, a Guam 
Commendation Medal, and various other campaign and unit awards, Rear 
Admiral Menoni's service in numerous positions as support personnel and 
Commander of operations demonstrates an impressive capacity for 
excellence in any role he achieves subsequent to

[[Page E627]]

his service as Commander of Joint Region Marianas. His determination to 
strengthen community ties and fortitude amid the greatest of challenges 
have further contributed to a reinvigorated mission of defense and 
unwavering freedom in the Pacific.
  Throughout his career and especially during his time in Guam, Rear 
Admiral Menoni has given new meaning to the Naval legacy of serving 
country before self. Moreover, he leaves behind a lasting impact on our 
community rooted in collaboration and problem-solving. Madam Speaker, I 
rise on behalf of the people of Guam, offering my greatest appreciation 
for his commitment to our country, region, and island. I sincerely 
thank Rear Admiral Menoni for his service and wish him the best in his 
next chapter of duty and future endeavors.

                          ____________________