[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 197 (Thursday, November 30, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1143-E1144]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE MEMORY OF LT. COL. CRAIG HAYES MANDEVILLE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 30, 2023

  Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and legacy 
of a true American hero, Lieutenant Colonel Craig H. Mandeville, U.S. 
Army (Retired), who passed away at the age of 83. Lt. Col. Mandeville 
was not only a decorated Vietnam War veteran, but also a dedicated 
advocate for the valor and sacrifice of those who served alongside him.
  Lt. Col. Mandeville distinguished himself as a two-tour Vietnam 
veteran, earning two Silver Stars and four Purple Hearts for his 
extraordinary courage and commitment to duty. His service during the An 
Loc battle, where he

[[Page E1144]]

served as an advisor alongside Colonel Ho Ngoc Can and Brigadier 
General Tran Van Nhut, played a pivotal role in securing victory. Even 
in the face of adversity, Lt. Col. Mandeville exemplified resilience 
and unwavering dedication.
  During the An Loc battle, when American forces attempted to extract 
Lt. Col. Mandeville, he refused evacuation and chose to stand shoulder-
to-shoulder with his Vietnamese comrades, continuing to fight with the 
people he had proudly served alongside. His selflessness and 
determination in the midst of danger embodies the highest ideals of 
military service and camaraderie.
  Lt. Col. Mandeville's contributions extended beyond the battlefield. 
In the aftermath of the Vietnam War, he played a crucial role in the 
creation of the Vietnam War Memorial in Freedom Park, located in the 
City of Westminster. His commitment to preserving the memory of those 
who served and sacrificed, both American and Vietnamese, reflects his 
deep sense of duty and compassion.
  As we mourn the passing of Lt. Col. Craig H. Mandeville, we also 
celebrate his life and the enduring impact he has had on our nation. A 
great man has left us, but his legacy will live on forever within the 
hearts and minds of those who knew him and in the collective memory of 
a grateful nation.
  May Lt. Col. Mandeville rest in peace, and may his family find solace 
in the knowledge that his contributions to our country will never be 
forgotten.

                          ____________________