In Appreciation of Lieutenant Commander Marley Cassels for Her Service on My Staff

Floor Speech

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Mr. GARAMENDI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition and appreciation of Lieutenant Commander Marley Cassels, U.S. Navy, upon her completion of the Department of Defense Legislative Fellowship program. Assigned to my office for the 2022 calendar year, Lieutenant Commander Cassels quickly became an integral part of my legislative staff.

Lieutenant Commander Cassels' background as a U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer directly informed my work as Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness during a challenging time framed by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and China's continued aggression on the world stage. Working closely with both my personal office and the Readiness Subcommittee staffs on the military's most pressing readiness challenges, her professionalism, positivity, and expertise helped to advance numerous legislative priorities.

Throughout the course of the year, she prepared me for important House Armed Services Committee Hearings, worked with constituents on pressing concerns, and championed legislative priorities dealing with California's Third Congressional District, military readiness, and the maritime industry. The ultimate team-player, she always looked for ways to contribute. There is no doubt her efforts helped to secure a range of priorities within the House passed H.R. 7900, ``National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023''. She made a lasting impact and will be deeply missed after an exceptional year of service.

Lieutenant Commander Cassels received a naval commission from the U.S. Naval Academy, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in English. She later earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the Naval Postgraduate School. Lieutenant Commander Cassels' operational assignments have included service aboard the USS Laboon (DDG 58), USS Mustin (DDG 89), and USS Lake Erie (CG 70). During her service, she has completed a Sixth Fleet deployment, a Seventh Fleet patrol, and a shipyard overall and modernization. She also served as the flag aide to the Commander of Navy Recruiting Command.

Her extensive expertise, work ethic, and problem-solving skills were critical to my work ensuring that our military is ready when needed. While Lieutenant Commander Cassels will be missed by Team Garamendi, the U.S. Navy is lucky to have her in its ranks and we are excited for all her future successes.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the people of California's Third Congressional District and a grateful country, I wish her fair winds and following seas and extend our deepest appreciation for her dedicated service.

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