Reps. Hayes, Smith join with House to honor U.S. Navy
Officers and personnel from Naval military installations throughout Washington gathered in the chamber of the state House of Representatives Thursday as lawmakers paid tribute to the men and women of the United States Navy.
Among those in attendance was Captain Geoff “Jefe” Moore, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, who watched as House Resolution 4670, celebrating the U.S. Navy, was approved unanimously.
Speaking on the House floor, Rep. Dave Hayes, R-Camano Island, said his life would have been very different had it not been for his decision to enter the U.S. Navy.
“I grew up in Lewiston, Idaho. Coming out of high school, I could have stayed there. But I wanted more. I wanted to learn a trade. So I chose to enter the United States Navy,” said Hayes. “Had it not been for the Navy, I might not be standing here today as a state representative in this chamber, and as a law enforcement officer in Snohomish County. I would likely be working in the sawmill or paper mill in Lewiston. The Navy helped to make me who I am today.”
Fellow 10th District lawmaker Rep. Norma Smith extended her appreciation for the contributions of the U.S. Navy servicemen and women.
“I am so thankful to members of the Navy, and their families, for their service and sacrifice,” said Smith, R-Clinton. “NAS Whidbey is such an integral part of our Whidbey Island community and essential to our economy. I am pleased that today we could pause to give our Navy personnel the honor and thanks they so deeply deserve.”
More than 150,000 members of the U.S. Navy family, including active duty, retired, dependent and civilian Navy personnel consider Washington state their home.
“They are community leaders, role models and mentors, who invest millions of dollars and thousands of hours to the economy, local charities, and community programs. They provide homeland security, disaster assistance and rescue services to our citizens in Washington,” added Hayes. “When called to serve, they answer the call without hesitation, with honorable sacrifice to ensure our safety and security. They are a global force for good.”
Photo: Rep. Norma Smith, left, and Rep. Dave Hayes, right, stand at the rostrum of the House chamber with Captain Geoff “Jefe” Moore, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Lawmakers honored the men and women of the U.S. Navy with passage Thursday of House Resolution 4670.
