Floor SpeechNeutral2026-01-21

HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON

EnvironmentVeterans

Context

On 2026-01-21, Representative Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered veterans affairs.

Full Text

HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 14 (Wednesday, January 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 14 (Wednesday, January 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E62] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON ______ HON. TONY GONZALES of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Mr. TONY GONZALES of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Jim Shelton, a true American hero whose courage, service, and devotion to duty continue to inspire generations. Jim Shelton was born on November 21, 1926, in San Antonio, Texas. At just 15 years old, he left school to work at Kelly Field in the Reclaiming Department, contributing to the war effort at an early age. Determined to serve his country, he returned to school and graduated early, enabling him to enlist in the United States Navy at the age of 17 at Fort Sam Houston. Mr. Shelton graduated in January 1944 and was assigned to the 96th Company. Drawing on his experience working with mechanical parts, he was stationed aboard the USS Endymion, a Navy repair ship. His role was critical--keeping damaged vessels operational in the midst of war. Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's naval career was defined by service to his fellow sailors and unwavering resolve. As a Coxswain and later a Boatswain's Mate, he and his shipmates repaired countless vessels and supported the fleet during the invasion of Okinawa. The Endymion itself came under enemy attack and was torpedoed off the island of Truk. Despite the danger and damage sustained, Mr. Shelton remained with the ship until the end of World War II. Later in life, Mr. Shelton was honored with an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he and his fellow crew members were formally recognized for their service. He received a letter from President Clinton honoring the crew of the Endymion for their dedication-- repairing other ships even after their own vessel had been attacked and damaged. Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's life is a testament to the strength, humility, and resilience of the Greatest Generation. His service to our Nation and his steadfast sense of duty stands as an enduring example of what it means to be an American. ____________________

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HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 14 (Wednesday, January 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 14 (Wednesday, January 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E62] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING UNITED STATES NAVY VETERAN JIM SHELTON ______ HON. TONY GONZALES of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Mr. TONY GONZALES of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Jim Shelton, a true American hero whose courage, service, and devotion to duty continue to inspire generations. Jim Shelton was born on November 21, 1926, in San Antonio, Texas. At just 15 years old, he left school to work at Kelly Field in the Reclaiming Department, contributing to the war effort at an early age. Determined to serve his country, he returned to school and graduated early, enabling him to enlist in the United States Navy at the age of 17 at Fort Sam Houston. Mr. Shelton graduated in January 1944 and was assigned to the 96th Company. Drawing on his experience working with mechanical parts, he was stationed aboard the USS Endymion, a Navy repair ship. His role was critical--keeping damaged vessels operational in the midst of war. Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's naval career was defined by service to his fellow sailors and unwavering resolve. As a Coxswain and later a Boatswain's Mate, he and his shipmates repaired countless vessels and supported the fleet during the invasion of Okinawa. The Endymion itself came under enemy attack and was torpedoed off the island of Truk. Despite the danger and damage sustained, Mr. Shelton remained with the ship until the end of World War II. Later in life, Mr. Shelton was honored with an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he and his fellow crew members were formally recognized for their service. He received a letter from President Clinton honoring the crew of the Endymion for their dedication-- repairing other ships even after their own vessel had been attacked and damaged. Mr. Speaker, Jim Shelton's life is a testament to the strength, humility, and resilience of the Greatest Generation. His service to our Nation and his steadfast sense of duty stands as an enduring example of what it means to be an American. ____________________