Fallen Heroes

Fallen Heroes -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 02, 2004)

SPEECH OF

HON. RANDY NEUGEBAUER

OF TEXAS

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2004

Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to dedicated soldiers, marines and citizens from my district that paid the ultimate price while serving our country.

Next weekend, our Nation will commemorate Memorial Day. All too often we forget the purposes of our special days we set aside to celebrate. Memorial Day is much more than a three-day weekend that marks the beginning of summer. This day, originally known as Decoration Day, has a long history dating back to the Civil War, commemorating the sacrifices of our armed forces. During this Memorial Day it is fitting that we make a special effort to honor and acknowledge those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our freedom and the freedom of others in Afghanistan and Iraq.

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the family and friends who are mourning the loss of Private First Class Chad Bales, Private First Class Ricky Morris, Specialist Robert Arsiaga, Specialist Israel Garza, Corporal Daniel Amaya, and Private First Class Clayton Henson. These gentlemen served our country with courage and dignity. There is no greater valor than sacrifice in the name of freedom.

I pray for the safe return of all of our servicemen and women and thank them for the sacrifice they make every day defending our country.