[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20683]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                  TRIBUTE TO OFFICER MICHAEL LEWELLEN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, August 4, 1999

  Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Officer Michael 
Lewellen for his commendable service to the United States Armed Forces. 
It is with great pride that I present Mr. Lewellen with seven 
prestigious military awards and decorations including the Bronze Star 
Medal, the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, the National Defense Service 
Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Combat Medical Badge, and the 
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device.
  Our nation is graced with many treasures, though none so precious as 
the peace we enjoy in our prosperous country. I am honored to commend 
Mr. Lewellen for his contribution to safeguarding that peace. It is one 
of our nation's great strengths that men and women have answered their 
country's call, and continue to heed it today to prevent the 
devastation we have witnessed too often this century.
  Fortunately, our society has been blessed with many leaders who 
learned the values of leadership--responsibility, accountability and 
loyalty--while wearing the uniform of their country. For without their 
dedication to duty, we would not enjoy the many freedoms a fortunate 
America has to offer.
  Again, I offer Mr. Lewellen my sincerest congratulations. I join 
together with everyone in this room to celebrate Mr. Lewellen's 
patriotism and to pay tribute to his service to our great nation.

                          ____________________