[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 128 (Tuesday, July 25, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E713-E714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF CAPTAIN JACK WALTER, A LOCAL WAR HERO

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 25, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
and service of Captain Jack Walter, a remarkable Vietnam Veteran whose 
dedication to serving our country deserves our recognition.
  As a forward observer and artillery specialist, Captain Jack Walter 
played a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy of military operations. 
His responsibility to relay enemy coordinates during calls for fire and 
confirm the impacts of artillery rounds demonstrated his skill, 
precision, and commitment to the mission at hand. Today, we celebrate 
Captain Jack Walter's life and express our gratitude for his 
selflessness and bravery. May his memory serve as a powerful reminder 
of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the importance of honoring 
their service.
  Lieutenant Jack Walter served with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry 
Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division of the U.S. Army. His actions during an 
intense battle in the Vietnamese bunker complex in early 1970 
highlighted his bravery and dedication to his duties. Despite being 
under constant enemy fire, he ensured the safety of his fellow 
soldiers. His courageous actions did not go unnoticed, and he was 
awarded the Bronze Star Medal with a ``V'' device for valor. Lieutenant 
Jack Walter humbly expressed surprise at receiving the recognition, 
stating that he believed he was simply doing his job. Due to his 
exceptional leadership and skills, Lieutenant Jack Walter was later 
promoted to the important role of Artillery Liaison, a position 
typically held by a Captain. In this role, he was responsible for 
coordinating fire support for an entire infantry battalion comprising 
nearly one thousand soldiers.
  In June of 1970, Lieutenant Jack Walter bravely took part in a daring 
rescue mission to save a group of soldiers who were stranded, injured, 
and surrounded by enemy forces. Lieutenant Jack Walter, understanding 
the importance of reassuring the troops that they had not been 
abandoned, personally flew multiple resupply missions to aid them. The 
enemy fire was so intense that he had to switch helicopters three 
times. This close encounter with death and his unwavering determination 
to complete the mission led to Lieutenant Jack Walter being awarded the 
Silver Star Medal, one of the nation's highest honors for bravery.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in remembering and 
appreciating Captain Jack Walter's courageous service to our country 
during the Vietnam War. It is through the dedication and sacrifice of 
individuals like him that we are able to enjoy the freedom and security 
we have today. May their service continue to inspire and remind us of 
the values we hold dear as Americans.

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