[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 131 (Monday, August 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E780]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        HONORING BARRY E. BOYER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. VICTORIA SPARTZ

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, August 10, 2026

  Mrs. SPARTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Barry E. Boyer, a 
remarkable Navy and Vietnam War veteran and long-time resident of 
Marion, Indiana. His life is defined by his patriotism and service to 
both our community and nation.
  At just nineteen years old, Mr. Boyer enlisted in the United States 
Navy on July 5th of 1966. His service took him to the Great Lakes Naval 
Station where he completed nine weeks of basic training. Mr. Boyer was 
then assigned to the USS Pickaway (APA 222) and began his four-year 
tour of duty around Southeast Asia.
  Following his promotion to Second Class Petty Officer, Mr. Boyer 
received orders to serve as a replacement for one of the twenty-five US 
Navy personnel that heroically lost their lives aboard the USS 
Westchester County (LST-1167). The ship was anchored in the Saigon 
River Basin in Vietnam, when Viet Cong frogman placed deadly mines on 
the ship's hull. The explosions marked the single greatest loss of Navy 
personnel during the Vietnam War.
  Mr. Boyer spent his final sixteen months on two tours of duty in and 
out of enemy waters in South Vietnam. He served with the US Navy until 
March 13th of 1970, carrying the memory and honor of those that 
sacrificed their lives. Following his honorable discharge, Mr. Boyer 
returned to Marion, Indiana. He went on to serve at the United States 
Postal Service, continuing his passion for public service.
  It was in Marion that Mr. Boyer met Reta Painter Boyer of Fairmount, 
Indiana, and married her. Together, they have raised two daughters, 
Jennifer and Janelle, and built their family based on the ideals of 
both faith and service. Mr. Boyer retired from the United States Post 
Office in 2003, after years of dedicated service. As described by his 
loved ones, Mr. Boyer has continued to be a patriot and humble servant 
of the Lord.
  On behalf of Indiana's 5th District, I commend Mr. Boyer for his 
courage and commitment to others. His contributions reflect true 
American patriotism.

                          ____________________