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Congressional Recognition of Catherine Lavelle Kessmeier

Original title: HONORING CATHERINE LAVELLE KESSMEIER

May 14, 2026

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The Frame

What this does

This document serves as an official public record of the career achievements of a high-ranking federal civilian attorney upon her retirement.

Who is mentioned in the record

Potentially affected actors named in the source documents. Mention is not a position.

Catherine Lavelle Kessmeier

She is the subject of the formal congressional recognition upon her retirement.

What changed

Last recorded activity May 14, 2026.

What's next

Next step not available in the current record.

Summary

Representative Donald S. Beyer, Jr. formally recognized Catherine Lavelle Kessmeier in the for her 30-year career in federal service, specifically her tenure as a civilian attorney for the Department of the Navy.

Key Facts

  • Catherine Lavelle Kessmeier is retiring after 30 years of federal service.
  • She served over 25 years as a civilian attorney for the Department of the Navy (DON) Office of the General Counsel.
  • She became a member of the Senior Executive Service in January 2013.
  • She was selected as Principal Deputy General Counsel (PDGC) in August 2021.
  • She served as Acting General Counsel of the Navy from August 2021 to February 2022 and from January 2025 to July 2025.
  • She led the DON's legal response to the Red Hill fuel release environmental crisis.
  • She advised on legal matters regarding the trilateral defense partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
  • She received the DON Meritorious, Superior, and Distinguished Civilian Service Awards.
  • She received the Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive.

Why It Matters

This document serves as an official public record of the career achievements of a high-ranking federal civilian attorney upon her retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of this document?
It is a formal recognition entered into the to honor the career of a retiring federal employee.
What was Ms. Kessmeier's highest role in the Navy?
She served as the and twice served as the Acting General Counsel of the Navy.

News Coverage

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Sponsors

Connected Entities

organizationSenior Executive ServiceThe leadership corps of the federal civil service to which Ms. Kessmeier was appMap →
personDonald S. Beyer, Jr.U.S. Representative from Virginia who introduced the recognition.Map →
personCatherine Lavelle KessmeierRetiring civilian attorney and former Principal Deputy General Counsel for the DMap →
organizationDepartment of the NavyThe federal agency where Ms. Kessmeier served for over 25 years.Map →

Sources

Open source document

www.govinfo.gov

Analysis Score

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  • Controversy0
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  • Entertainment5
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