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Rep. Kay Granger

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant Commander Jonas Benton Kelsall who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. LCDR Kelsall was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be greatly missed.

LCDR Kelsall was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, three Bronze Star Medals with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two Joint Service Achievement Medals, two Combat Action Ribbons, two Presidential Unit Citations, three Afghanistan Campaign Medals, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations.

LCDR Kelsall is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His nation owes LCDR Kelsall an enormous debt of gratitude. We are honored to have had such an exemplary American fighting for his country.

I wish to extend my condolences to LCDR Kelsall's family, friends, and teammates and hope they continue to find solace in his lasting impact on his grateful nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.