Press Releases

Today, Congresswoman Debbie Lesko, along with Representatives Andy Biggs, Paul Gosar, Martha McSally, and David Schweikert of the Arizona delegation, sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer requesting Airman Colton Whitmire of Peoria be granted his emergency leave request for the death of a family member to attend his step-father’s funeral. Airman Whitmire was previously denied his request for emergency leave because his step-father, Captain Juston Doherty, who suddenly passed away on July 8, 2018, was not listed on Whitmire’s next-of-kin form. Because Airman Whitmire lived with Captain Doherty since age 2, Congresswoman Lesko and the other members from Arizona requested an exception be made for Airman Whitmire according to Navy Personnel Command protocol for in loco parentis. Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) released the following statement after the letter was sent to Secretary Spencer:

 
“My thoughts and prayers are with all of Captain Juston Doherty’s family and friends for their loss. I am humbled that Airman Colton Whitmire’s wife contacted my office seeking assistance with his emergency leave request, and that my office was able to assist this family during an incredibly difficult time. Chuck Byers, a staffer in my Glendale office dedicated to veterans and military personnel, was continuously in touch with the Congressional Liaison for the Department of the Navy to ensure Airman Whitmire could be back in Arizona for his step-father’s funeral. Multiple inquiries were made on his behalf, and ultimately, Airman Whitmire was granted standard leave and will be able to attend the services and mourn the loss of his step-father with the rest of his family and loved ones. Thank you to both Captain Doherty and Airman Whitmire for their service to our country.”