Recognizing Congressional Patriot Award Recipient Jeff Skinner

Floor Speech

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Mr. FALLON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Charles ``Jeff'' Skinner, Jr., of Rockwall, Texas, and present him with the Congressional Patriot Award. Jeff has dedicated himself to faithfully serving our community and country.

Jeff was born in Dallas, Texas, in 1981. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1999, where he served as a Field Radio Operator during the Global War on Terrorism. Along with his unit, Jeff was involved in numerous successful combat missions. Most notably, he participated in the longest amphibious airfield seizure in Marine Corps history at Camp Rhino, Afghanistan, and was one of the first Marines to enter Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. For his service, Jeff received numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two bronze campaign stars, and Iraq Campaign Medal with two bronze stars.

In September 2003, Jeff was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps. He currently operates Black Level AV, a small business that specializes in delivering elite audio and visual technology for North Texans. Jeff is also actively involved in our community and is passionate about youth mentorship. He currently serves as the Public Affairs Officer for the CWO2 James Randolph Marine Corps League and is the Public Relations Officer for the Lake Ray Hubbard Young Marines. Jeff also led the charge to bring Toys for Tots to Rockwall and is involved with the Youth Leadership Symposium. As such, the Marine Corps League has recognized him as Marine of the Year for his contributions to the League and our community. I am proud of the work Jeff has accomplished, and I am sure he will continue to make a positive impact on the world around us for many years to come.

It is an honor to bestow Jeff with the Patriot Award for his exceptional service to our Nation and the people of North Texas.

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