TITLE: In memory of the life of James H. Calfee.

SUMMARY: In memory of the life of James H. Calfee.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of United States Air Force Master Sergeant James H. Calfee, who died March 11, 1968, while bravely serving his country in the Vietnam War; and WHEREAS, A native of Newgulf, Master Sergeant Calfee was one of a select number of highly skilled individuals of the 1st Combat Evaluation Group chosen to staff a top secret radar installation on a mountaintop in Laos known as Lima Site 85; he had specifically requested deployment to this dangerous mission and had to receive a special medical waiver to be able to participate; and WHEREAS, The installation soon came under fire from North Vietnamese troops; Master Sergeant Calfee played an important role in training the detachment, most of whom were technicians rather than combat soldiers, in the use of the M-16 rifles they were supplied; and WHEREAS, On the morning of March 11, 1968, North Vietnamese troops launched a concerted attack on the facility; despite being gravely wounded, Master Sergeant Calfee continued to engage the enemy, and thanks to his efforts, some of the other men were able to reach safety; for his valor and his courage under fire, he was posthumously awarded a Bronze Star with Valor device, which, when further details of the raid were established, was upgraded to a Silver Star; and WHEREAS, Master Sergeant Calfee gave his last full measure of devotion in service to his country, and he joins the long line of courageous men and women whose selfless courage and strength have left an indelible mark on the world; it is truly fitting that this patriot who fought so bravely in defense of our nation's safety, security, and ideals be recognized for his heroism and devotion to duty; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life and legacy of United States Air Force Master Sergeant James H. Calfee and commemorate his posthumous receipt of the Silver Star; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of gratitude and appreciation for his service, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Master Sergeant James H. Calfee. Hegar President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 6, 2013, by a rising vote.