[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 41 (Tuesday, March 8, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING REAR ADMIRAL RAYMOND CHARLES SMITH, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 8, 2022

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rear 
Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, Jr. in celebration of his outstanding 
career in the U.S. Navy.
  Rear Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, Jr. was born and raised in 
Vallejo, California, graduating from St. Vincent's High School in 1961. 
Admiral Smith began his career in the Navy in 1962. Shortly after 
enlisting, he attended the U.S. Naval Academy, which he graduated from 
in 1967. Later, in 1974, he earned a master's degree in Physical 
Oceanography from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, 
California.
  Admiral Smith served as First Lieutenant on USS Floyd B. Parks for 
two years before participating in Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL 
Training. After graduating from his SEAL Training in 1970, Admiral 
Smith served in a variety of positions on Underwater Demolition Team 
Thirteen, including as Ordinance Officer, Operations Officer, and 
Platoon Commander.
  In August 1990, he deployed to the Arabian Gulf in response to the 
Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, where he led Naval Special Warfare Task Group 
Central during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Then in June 
1992, he assumed command of Naval Special Warfare Command at Coronado, 
California, where he was responsible for over 2,300 SEALs and support 
personnel. From 1996 to 1998, Admiral Smith moved to Tampa, Florida, 
and served as both Director of Resources and the Deputy Commander-in-
Chief of the Special Operations Command. He retired from active duty in 
2001 after 34 years of service.
  During his retirement, Admiral Smith devoted himself to his three 
passions: family, fitness, and community service. Admiral Smith was 
described as a great husband, father, and friend. He was married to his 
wife, Kathleen, for 54 years, with whom he had three sons: Raymond III, 
Nate, and Adam. Admiral Smith passed away peacefully at his home in 
Coronado, California, on February 6,2022.
  Madam Speaker, it is evident that Rear Admiral Raymond Charles Smith, 
Jr. dedicated his life to military service and our country. Therefore, 
it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

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