The Honorable (full name of representative)
Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative .........

Please co-sponsor of H.J.RES.38 which was reintroduced in the United States Congress on March 17, 2005, by Congressman Peter King recognizing Commodore John Barry as the First Flag Officer of the United States Navy.

Commodore John Barry, an American merchant marine captain volunteered his services to the Continental Navy. Throughout his career, Commodore Barry not only provided the first and last victories at sea for the American revolutionaries, but also was responsible for the organization of the historic crossing of the Delaware River by General George Washington.

Under President Washington, Commodore Barry built and first commanded the United States Navy and the squadron that included his flagship the USS UNITED STATES and the USS CONSTITUTION ("Old Ironsides"). John Barry served as head of the United States Navy with the title of "Commodore" (in official correspondence) under Presidents Washington, Adams, and Jefferson.

In recognition of his historic role and of his achievements, it is fitting that Commodore Barry be properly honored as the first commodore flag officer of the United States Navy.

I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for your support.