[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 11]
[Senate]
[Pages 16273-16274]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                 Petty Officer First Class Caleb Nelson

  Mr. JOHANNS. Mr. President, I rise today to honor a fallen hero, 
Petty Officer First Class Caleb Nelson of Omaha, Nebraska. Petty 
Officer Nelson died on October 1, 2011, when his vehicle was struck by 
an explosive device in Afghanistan. He was on combat patrol with fellow 
SEAL team members when the attack occurred. His desire to succeed and 
help others led him to military service.
  For Caleb, it had to be the best. For him, that was the Navy SEALs. 
Military commanders trusted Petty Officer Nelson's judgment and his 
commitment. He was typically assigned a leading role on search 
missions, placing the lives of many SEALs in his capable hands. Caleb 
was in the lead position when he was killed.
  The decorations and badges earned during his distinguished service 
speak to his dedication and to his skill--The Bronze Star with Valor, 
the Purple Heart, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the 
Combat Action Ribbon, the Good Conduct Ribbon, the National Defense 
Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the 
Global War on Terrorism Medal, the Sea Service Ribbon (2 awards), the 
NATO Service

[[Page 16274]]

Medal, the Expert Rifle Ribbon, and the Expert Pistol Ribbon.
  Although Caleb's life was cut short, he had a wide circle of friends 
and touched the lives and hearts of many. His dynamic and energetic 
personality caused people to look to him as a motivator and as a 
mentor. Those who knew him recall his deep faith in Christ, his strong 
interest in physical fitness, and a focus on getting things done. 
Throughout his life, Caleb grew in his Christian faith and quickly 
became a rock of support for others. No problem was too small to lay 
before Caleb.
  There was also an unrelenting love for family dwelling inside this 
tough, physically fit SEAL. His wife Anna and his sons, David and Kyle, 
meant everything to him. When Caleb wasn't training or on assignment, 
he was with them. Caleb also benefited from a strong relationship with 
his loving parents, Larry and Barb, his nine siblings, and a faithful 
community of fellow believers who admired his strength, his compassion, 
and his leadership.
  Today, I ask that God be with the family and friends of Caleb Nelson 
and bring them comfort during this very difficult time. Their faith is 
strong, so I know they will join me in seeking God's blessings on those 
currently serving in uniform, especially those involved in combat 
operations.
  May God bless our servicemembers and their families and bring them 
home safely.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Illinois.

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