Congressional Veteran Commendation for Petty Officer Douglas Compton
Floor Speech
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Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Petty Officer Third Class Douglas Compton of Royse City, Texas, and award him a Congressional Veteran Commendation. PO3 Compton honorably served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.
When the United States conducted a draft, PO3 Compton was not one of those selected. However, he chose to serve his country and joined the Navy. PO3 Compton served on the USS Chase County (LST-491) tank landing ship as an engineman. His responsibilities included maintaining the ship's engine room and repairing broken parts to ensure that it is ready to go on combat missions at a moment's notice. For his service and contributions to the war effort, PO3 Compton was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and several other awards.
After his military service, PO3 Compton worked for Texas Instruments as a numerical control machinist. In this role, he helped produce critical parts for the American defense industry, including components for night vision devices, missiles, and cameras. His important work at Texas Instruments helped the United States maintain a competitive advantage in advanced weaponry and technology. Later, PO3 Compton worked with Halliburton as a machinist and manufacturing production planner. He retired after 41 years with Halliburton, and now focuses on spending time with his children and grandchildren.
PO3 Compton is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and helps raise awareness for veterans' issues. When called upon, he plays taps during memorial services for veterans at the Rest Haven Funeral Home in Rockwall. He also plays in community bands around North Texas. I commend PO3 Compton for his continued efforts to ensure that the sacrifices of our Nation's veterans will be remembered for generations to come.
I am honored to represent PO3 Compton in Texas' 4th Congressional District. It is a pleasure to award him the Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to our Nation and to the people of North Texas.
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