On September 11, 2001, our nation lost thousands of brave and innocent men and women in the unconscionable terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.  Among those who admirably, but regretfully, gave their lives that day while serving our country at the Pentagon was a gentleman from my district, Operations Specialist 2nd Class Nehamon Lyons IV.   I wish to recognize his life and achievements. 

 Officer Lyons was born and raised in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where he graduated from Dollarway High School in 1989.  After graduating, he moved to Mobile, Alabama, and in 1997 enlisted in the Navy.  Although he was first assigned to the USS Gettysburg, Officer Lyons had been attracted to the Pentagon since high school.  Through hard work, he eventually received a coveted and prestigious assignment to the center of our nation’s military command.  During his tenure at the Pentagon, he effectively managed multiple responsibilities, including his most recent position as Operations Specialist.

 The Navy awarded Officer Lyons multiple accolades throughout his career for his contributions to our country including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and two Navy "E" Ribbons.  In addition, for his bravery in the face of extreme peril on September 11, 2001, Officer Lyons will posthumously be awarded the Purple Heart of Courage and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

Officer Lyons was not only a decorated and distinguished serviceman, but also an honorable member of his community.  He served this nation and his fellow citizens with spirit and bravery.  All those who knew him will miss his cheerful demeanor and hard-working attitude.  His passing is a significant loss not only to his family and friends, but also to our state and our nation.

 I am grateful for Officer Lyons’s service to and love for his country, and I pay tribute to him for his lifetime of accomplishments.  My thoughts and prayers are with his mother, Jewel Lyons, and all his family and friends.