[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 69 (Tuesday, May 15, 2012)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E792] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING SMSGT (RET.) WALTER LAMERTON'S EFFORTS TO BRING A USO CENTER TO TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, May 15, 2012 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor retired U.S. Air Force SMSgt (Ret.) Walter Lamerton of Trinity, Florida for his critical role in bringing the USO to Tampa International Airport. On January 18, 2012, the USO Board of Governors voted to grant a charter for the USO expansion to Tampa. This USO Center is scheduled to open in August 2012 and will support the more than 300,000 service members and their families that annually transit the Tampa Bay community. At the time of the vote, USO Headquarters Staff stated that ``Many have applied, but that this is the first Chartered USO Center approved in the nation in over twenty years.'' Walter Lamerton was a driving force behind submitting this ultimately successful proposal to the USO Board of Governors. He worked closely with volunteers throughout the Tampa Bay area and effectively conveyed their message of support for our service members and their families to both the local community and to the USO Board of Governors, under a compact timeframe. Mr. Lamerton's leadership and attention to detail were critical in the effort to bring the USO Center to Tampa. As a result, many of our Nation's service members and their families will directly benefit from his efforts for years to come. As Vice-Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I constantly find myself in awe of the sacrifices and efforts that have been made on behalf of our great country by the men and women who have worn the uniform of our Armed Services. Because of this, it is my distinct honor to recognize and express my gratitude to Walter Lamerton for his dedication in bringing the USO to the Tampa Bay area. His success in this endeavor will serve as a lasting legacy for all who support our military and their families. The USO Center at Tampa International Airport will, surely, be a shining star in our community. ____________________