The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING REAR ADMIRAL JOHN A. OKON
______
HON. STEVEN M. PALAZZO
of mississippi
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, June 22, 2021
Mr. PALAZZO. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Rear Admiral John A. Okon for his profound leadership while in command of the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command (CNMOC) at John C. Stennis Space Center in South Mississippi from 2017 to 2021.
Rear Adm. Okon grew up in Syracuse, New York where he married his wife, Valerie Gessner. Okon first graduated from the State University of New York Maritime College at Fort Schuyler in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography. He also earned a bachelor's degree in National Security Studies from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island and holds master's degrees in Meteorology and Physical Oceanography from the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California.
While Okon's previous commands include locations such as Osaka, Japan, and Monterey, California, his tenure at CNMOC will be fondly remembered for successes such as procuring funding for a new oceanographic survey ship (T-AGS 67) built at VT Halter Marine Pascagoula, Mississippi, launching the Unmanned Systems Operations Center in the Naval Oceanographic Office, and endorsing a Memorandum of Understanding with NOAA to execute language in the Commercial Engagement for Ocean Technology (CENOTE) Act. He was also instrumental in overseeing several Naval Technology Exercises along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Port of Gulfport
Rear Adm. Okon has played an influential role in fostering community engagement by educating organizations on the critical contributions the Navy makes to our National Security. His collection of personal awards includes the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, in addition to various campaign and service awards.
As the Congressman for the Fourth Congressional District of Mississippi, it is an honor and privilege to recognize Rear Admiral John Okon today for his selfless duty and commitment to the Navy and to the United States of America.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 108
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