[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 132 (Thursday, September 8, 2011)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1559] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] MEMORIAL TRIBUTE FOR SENIOR CHIEF PETTY OFFICER SPECIAL WARFARE OPERATOR THOMAS ARTHUR RATZLAFF ______ HON. KAY GRANGER- of texas in the house of representatives Thursday, September 8, 2011 Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Senior Chief Petty Officer Special Warfare Operator Thomas Arthur Ratzlaff who died August 6th in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Senior Chief Ratzlaff was a patriot and a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice ensuring the security of our nation. He will be greatly missed. Senior Chief Ratzlaff was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards and decorations, including five Bronze Star Medals with Valor, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Joint Service Commendation Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, two Combat Action Ribbons, Presidential Unit Citation, and numerous other personal and unit decorations. Additionally, Senior Chief Ratzlaff was awarded the Star of Military Valor, for actions in Afghanistan while supporting Canadian Soldiers. He is only the second American since World War I to have this honor bestowed upon him. Senior Chief Ratzlaff is survived by his loving family, friends, and teammates. His nation owes Senior Chief Ratzlaff 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 Senior Chief Ratzlaff'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. ____________________