Capitol Words a project of the Sunlight Foundation

Rep. Steven Palazzo

Mr. Speaker, last week our country lost a true American hero, my uncle, Captain Eugene P. Lund. Captain Lund died on the Mississippi Gulf Coast at the age of 78.

My uncle was a graduate of Notre Dame and the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School with degrees in engineering, and from The George Washington University with a masters degree in management.

While in the Navy, he was a carrier fighter pilot and commanding officer of a fighter squadron serving with distinction in over 250 missions during Vietnam.

He was awarded the Bronze Star, Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, 19 additional Air Medals and numerous other awards for his service to our Nation.

He also headed the Navy team that designed and developed the F/A-18 aircraft.

Before retirement, he served as the Director of the Naval Weapons Engineering Support Activity providing engineering assistance and consultation on many naval aviation and weapons programs. He retired after 25 years of service to our country in the Navy.

My heart goes out to the rest of our family, especially my Aunt Virgie. The men and women who serve our country in uniform are the bravest and most selfless in the world. I ask that all of my colleagues strive to remember that every day.

Uncle Geno, may your journey to Christ be of ``Fair winds and following seas and long may your big jib draw.''