[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 116 (Thursday, September 15, 2005)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1865] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO JESS F. GRANONE ______ HON. ROBERT E. (BUD) CRAMER, JR. of alabama in the house of representatives Thursday, September 15, 2005 Mr. CRAMER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Jess F. Granone for his many years of outstanding service as Executive Director of the U.S. Space and Missile Defense Technical Center (SMDTC). Mr. Granone is leaving the position, which he assumed in May of 1999. As director of SMDTC, he has been responsible for managing the day- to-day research, development, test, and evaluation activities for the Army's space and missile defense technology program. He has ensured that the command's efforts are balanced and integrated to support the Army, the Missile Defense Agency, and the Program Executive Office for the Air and Missile Defense. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Granone began his career in missile defense as an engineer in the Joint Anti-Tactical Missile Project office in the mid- 1980s. He has participated in numerous international defense initiatives in conjunction with NATO, Israel, and Japan, as well as numerous special assignments such as Chairman of the U.S. Army Missile Review Board. Some of Mr. Granone's accomplishments include developing SMDC's first integrated technology program for Directed Energy, developing the first ever KATYUSHA rocket shot down by a laser system, and developing the Army's science and technology research efforts related to space and office products. Mr. Granone was also instrumental in starting the Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment System program. Through his many years of service, Mr. Granone has received numerous awards for his accomplishments. Most notably, he has received the Senior Executive Service Presidential Rank Award, the Meritorious Civilian Service Award, the Superior Civilian Service Award, and a Letter of Commendation from the Secretary of Defense. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Alabama's 5th Congressional District, I rise today to express my gratitude to Jess Granone for his service to our military and our Nation. ____________________