Captain Robert E. ``bob'' Batterson Post Office

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLOUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 10065 to name a post office in Corpus Christi in memory of Captain Robert ``Bob'' Batterson.

Captain Batterson's life is a life of service and a testament to the very best of American character.

In 1939, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, setting sail on his life's journey of dedicated and devoted service to our Nation.

In 1941, he was stationed at Pearl Harbor and survived the attack that thrust America into World War II. That same resilience carried him to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, where he earned his wings in 1944 and flew F6F Hellcats in defense of our Nation.

Captain Batterson's service continued long after World War II as he transitioned to the Navy Supply Corps, serving faithfully until his retirement in 1974.

Over the course of his 35-year military career, he exemplified duty and honor, but Captain Batterson didn't stop serving when he took off the uniform. For 26 years, he volunteered at the USS Lexington Museum in Corpus Christi, where he could often be found at the Pearl Harbor exhibit, sharing his firsthand accounts of the attack on Pearl Harbor and other personal stories of valor from the war with visitors from around the world. His personal stories preserved a living history, ensuring future generations understood the sacrifices made for freedom.

Captain Batterson passed away last year at the age of 102 years young, leaving behind his wife, Hilda, and an indelible legacy of service and patriotism. His dedication to his community and his country will not be forgotten.

In naming this post office in his honor, we commemorate a life of extraordinary service to our country and the Corpus Christi community. Captain Batterson's name will continue to inspire all who pass through its door, reminding us of the courage and sacrifice that define our Greatest Generation and should continue to inspire our current and future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill to honor a true American hero. May God bless Captain Batterson's memory, his family, the city of Corpus Christi, and our beloved Nation.

Mr. Speaker, as someone who had the opportunity to know him personally, there is no one who could be more worthy of this honor.

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