[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16275]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO CAPTAIN JOSEPH McCLAIN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 22, 2010

  Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me take this means to recognize and 
congratulate an outstanding Naval Officer, Captain Joseph McClain, for 
the successful completion of 29 years of distinguished Naval service, 
culminating with his position as the Director of the U.S. House of 
Representatives Liaison Office in the Department of the Navy's Office 
of Legislative Affairs. I am honored to commend Captain McClain's 
achievements and recognize his devotion to our great Nation.
  A 1982 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Captain McClain 
earned his wings in 1983 and was designated a Naval Flight Officer. He 
has sailed around the world flying the S-3 Viking and has served in 
four squadrons aboard four different aircraft carriers.
  Captain McClain served as the Executive Officer and Commanding 
Officer of the Blue Wolves of VS-35. During this tour, he adeptly led 
his squadron on two successful deployments aboard USS Abraham Lincoln 
(CVN 72). Under his leadership, the Blue Wolves were awarded the Battle 
``E'' for operational excellence within the Air Wing, the Golden Wrench 
for maintenance superiority, and the Pacific Fleet Retention Award. He 
later returned to command Sea Control Wing Atlantic, again displaying 
inspirational leadership for thousands of sailors and skillfully 
leading the Viking community through a majority of its Sundown.
  In his final assignment, Captain McClain stood honorably in the shoes 
of every sailor worldwide as he advocated on their behalf and ensured 
the continued success of the Navy.
  Captain McClain retires after 29 years of honorable service to this 
Nation. His professional success would not have been possible without 
the steadfast support of his wife, Deanna; sons, Joshua and Jeremy; and 
daughter, Allison. Their shared sacrifice is a credit to their personal 
character.
  Madam Speaker, I wish Captain McClain continued success and 
fulfillment as he transitions to civilian life after nearly three 
decades of service. I trust my fellow members of the House will join me 
in saluting this outstanding Naval Officer.

                          ____________________