On the recordJuly 8, 2015
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of my own. As of today, my son, Joe, is officially a member of the United States Navy. My wife, Jacquie, and I are the proud parents of seven children. Last month, Joe, our fifth child, graduated high school and now is off to serve his country. Today, as Joe leaves for basic, he knows that hard days lie ahead. He understands that he will have to listen and learn and, when the time comes, lead. Like millions of brave and selfless Americans before him, Joe has taken an oath to serve his Nation and to protect the freedoms we hold dear. My wife and I are so proud of Joe, and we are humbled by his chosen path. So to Joe and his fellow recruits, we honor and thank you for your service, and we wish you fair winds and safe seas. Joe, we will pray for you, and we look forward to seeing your transformation from citizen to sailor. We love you. ____________________





