[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 11]
[House]
[Page 15617]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                    THE REVEREND GEORGE G. McDEARMON

  (Mr. SWEENEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure and honor to welcome 
Pastor George McDearmon from the Ballston Lake Baptist Church in 
Ballston Lake, New York in my 22nd Congressional District.
  He and his wife, Deborah, are the proud parents of two children. 
Their daughter, Hanna, is a senior at Liberty University; and their 
son, Gregory, is the navigator of the USS Ross.
  Pastor McDearmon and I grew close during the events that unfolded on 
October 12, 2000. It was on this day the Navy family suffered a 
tremendous loss when the USS Cole fell victim to terrorism while 
attempting to refuel at the Port of Aden in Yemen.
  Fortunately, I was able to deliver good news to Pastor McDearmon. His 
son, LTJG Gregory McDearmon, was safe. I commend their service to their 
communities and our country.
  I note that today is a milestone day for both the Pastor and his son, 
Gregory, since Gregory is navigating the ship, the USS Ross, into port 
in Puerto Rico for the first time today.
  Pastor McDearmon was first assigned to the Ballston Lake Baptist 
Church almost 25 years ago, and his dedication to his congregation, 
local community and family has kept him there ever since. I would also 
like to note, he is a member of the board of directors for the Southern 
Military Institute.
  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have him here and welcome his 
participation today.

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