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Rep. Joe Courtney

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor VADM James A. Zimble, MC, USN, who passed away December 14, 2011 at age 78.

Throughout his career in the United States Navy, Admiral Zimble was unrelenting in his dedication to his country and fellow service members. After earning his degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Dr. Zimble joined the Navy in 1955. Completing an internship at St. Albans Hospital, Dr. Zimble decided to pursue undersea medicine and spent a tour aboard the fleet ballistic missle submarine USS John Marshall. The valuable skills he acquired there paved the incredible career that followed.

Dr. Zimble served as the CO of the Naval Regional Medical Center in 1978 before becoming the Medical Officer of the Marine Corps in 1981 and then the Fleet Surgeon for Commander in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Most notably, VADM Zimble served as the Surgeon General of the U.S. Navy from 1987 to 1991, where he presided over disestablishment of the Naval Medical Command and the return of the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED). In addition, Dr. Zimble managed the deployment of the hospital ships Mercy and Comfort, the Fleet Hospitals, and Medical Department personnel for the Gulf War.

Upon his retirement in 2004, Dr. Zimble moved to New London, Connecticut, where he lived with his wife Mona.

Admiral Zimble's commitment to the health of the military and their families touched the lives of millions. Please join me in honoring this extraordinary man.