Honoring Our Armed Forces

HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES
U.S. ARMY PFC CLESTON C. RANEY
Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today with great sadness and tremendous gratitude to honor the life of a brave young soldier from Idaho. U.S. Army PFC Cleston C. Raney of Rupert was only 20 when, on March 31, 2004, he lost his life in Iraq. Private Raney was killed by a roadside bomb doing what he considered his duty: fighting for the freedoms we all hold dear. Today, I recognize his service and express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of this exceptional young man.
Private Raney was born in Twin Falls, ID, and attended school in Rupert and Burley. Driven by a strong sense of purpose, he joined the Army in November of 2002 and began his military career as a combat engineer in Fort Riley, KS, in April 2003. In September 2003 he was deployed to Iraq. He served honorably until his death.
Private Raney's death was part of the deadliest day of the war for the Army's 1st Infantry Division, stationed at Fort Riley, KS. Four fellow soldiers from the same division were also killed. This fact underscores the great threats that continue to face our young men and women in the Armed forces. It is also a testament to their great bravery, commitment, and resolve. Private Raney's death was the ultimate sacrifice by a brave young America, made so that we and others around the world can live in freedom.
His family is very private and has asked that the media allow them to grieve without the glare of cameras and the insistent questioning from reporters, but they did share some thoughts publicly about Cleston and his love of life and family. He was a young man at the beginning of so many opportunities in his life. He loved his family and enjoyed participating in activities with them, particularly beating his cousin Gina at pool. He was so typical of many 20-year-old young men, and yet his sacrifice for his country is anything but typical.
Private Raney's decision to serve our country places him in my highest esteem. With gravity and sincerity, I honor him. My thoughts and prayers are with his grieving loved ones as they work to find peace in this difficult time. I know my colleagues here in Congress and many Americans throughout our country do the same.