Floor Statements

Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude that today I honor the life of a brave young man from Hammond. Jonathan Rojas, 27 years old, died on October 3 after being struck by a sniper bullet while on patrol in Baghdad. Jonathan risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Jonathan spent several years in the workforce after graduating from Hammond High School before enlisting. He had been due to return home to Indiana 2 months before he was killed but agreed to stay longer, promising his family in Hammond that he would be home in time for Christmas. Jonathan was remembered by his brother William as playful and warm hearted, when he said, ``We're going to miss him being himself, doing stupid things, his company, having a brother, someone to talk to.''

Jonathan was killed, while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Stryker Brigde Combat Team. This brave soldier leaves behind wife Tasha Rojas, parents Jose and Catalina Rojas, brother William Rojas, and sister Isaura Rojas.

Today, I join Jonathan's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Jonathan, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Jonathan was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. He was looking forward to civilian life and starting a family with his wife Tasha. Today and always, Jonathan will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Jonathan's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg: ``We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.'' This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Jonathan's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jonathan Rojas in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace. When I think about this just

cause in which we are engaged and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Jonathan's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Jonathan.

Mr. President, It is with a heavy heart that I pay tribute to a true friend and Hoosier, William E. Osos. Bill, a former director for the United Auto Workers Region 3, passed away on October 6th, leaving behind a loving family and thousands of Hoosiers who benefited from his devotion to working men and women. My thoughts and prayers this week are with his wife Genevieve and their children and grandchildren.

Bill was a man of courage and conviction, who did what was right regardless of the popularity at the moment. He served for 2 years in the Navy during World War II. At home in Michigan City, Bill first became active in the UAW while working at Michiana Products Company. It was the beginning of a commitment he would honor throughout his life. In 1966, he was appointed an international representative of the union by UAW president Walter P. Reuther. He eventually was elected to be director of the union's Region 3 in 1984, a position he served in until his retirement in 1992.

Bill's dedication to the working men and women of Indiana was apparent to everyone who met him. He truly relished his role in leading the fight for good jobs and good wages. In fact, many Hoosiers and UAW members could tell you that it is a role he continued well after his retirement. Even after moving from Indiana to Florida, Bill stayed involved in UAW work, always ready to help serve.

His work in Indiana meant so much to the thousands of UAW workers in our State, and I also owe Bill a personal debt of gratitude. When I was running for secretary of state in Indiana, we didn't have much of a Democratic party organization, but we did have organized labor and the UAW, with Bill as Region 3 director. His support during my first political race was a strong foundation to build on, and with his help, I won that election. I went on to serve two terms as Indiana's Governor, when together, we were able to give 30,000 of our workers collective bargaining rights, more than half represented by the UAW.

I have had the privilege of knowing and working with many union leaders over the years, from the days I spent with my father on his campaigns outside plant gates to my work as Governor and through today. But Bill sticks out in my memory for his belief in the importance of his work and his tireless fighting on behalf of working men and women.

Bill spent his life fighting for good jobs, affordable health care, and secure pensions--all the things that make up the American dream. We need more people fighting that fight today, and we will miss Bill greatly as we continue his efforts to ensure that every American who works hard and plays by the rules can do right by his family.

Indiana and its people are better for his leadership. Bill was my friend, and I will miss him. It is my honor to enter his name into the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Sunman. Anthony P. Seig, 19 years old, died on September 9 in Baghdad after being gravely injured when a rocket struck the roof of his barracks the day before. Tony risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Tony enlisted in the Army shortly after graduating East Central High School in St. Leon last year. He had been in Iraq for 2 months when he was killed and would have celebrated his 20th birthday in a few weeks. Tony was remembered by his aunt, Vicki Jenkins, who told a local news outlet, ``He's certainly our hero. He was very proud to serve his country. He felt very strongly about serving his country.''

Tony was killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 118th Military Police Company, Fort Bragg, NC. This brave soldier leaves behind his mother, Linda Seig, and two sisters.

Today, I join Tony's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Tony, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Tony was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. Today and always, Tony will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Tony's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg:

We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow

this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled

here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or

detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we

say here, but it can never forget what they did here.

This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Tony's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Anthony P. Seig in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Tony's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Tony.

Mr. President, I rise to speak on behalf of my amendment to

the fiscal year 2007 Defense appropriations bill, S.A. 4911 to H.R., 5631, with Senator Reed to restore full funding for Predator unmanned aerial vehicles, UAVs, for the U.S. Special Operations Command, SOCOM. This amendment will allow SOCOM to receive its full complement of Predators by 2010 by adding $64.4 million to the fiscal year 2007 Defense appropriations bill.

Our brave troops and intelligence collectors must have the tools they need to find, fix and eliminate terrorists intended to do our Nation harm. The Predator, which comes in armed and unarmed modes and has advanced sensors and cameras, is one of the most important systems we have to monitor terrorist activity in hostile environments. The Predator also is a critical intelligence gathering platform in fighting insurgents in Iraq and the Taliban in Afghanistan. According to Defense News, the Predator was central to the detection and killing of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in Iraq this past June.

I have been pleased to fight for putting more Predators in the hands of our Special Operations Command ever since U.S. Special Operations Command Deputy Commander Eric Olson responded to my question about whether he had all the tools he needs to win the war on terror in an April 6, 2006, hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee's Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee. Admiral Olson said his command did not have enough Predators, and was not slated to have adequate numbers of Predators for several years. This is unacceptable, and I expressed my concern to Chairman Warner and Ranking Member Levin in an April 27, 2006, letter urging committee action on this shortcoming.

I was equally pleased that the Senate Armed Services Committee adopted my amendment calling for full funding of the Predators for the Special Operations Command during mark-up of the fiscal year 2007 Defense authorization bill.

Unfortunately, defense appropriators cut back funding for Predators in its mark-up of the fiscal year 2007 Defense appropriations bill. My amendment restores full funding for a second squad of Predators for our Special Operations Forces' war-fighters and intelligence collectors by 2010. Giving our military and our intelligence personnel the best tools, as quickly as possible, to win the war on terror is something we must do.

Mr. President, today I pay tribute to retired Lake County Sheriff's Department police chief Gary Martin for his decades of dedicated service to the people of northwest Indiana and his extraordinary kindness toward the families of fallen Hoosier police officers. It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of gratitude that I honor the life of Chief Martin, who was killed on August 22 on Indiana 63 when he was struck by an automobile while participating in a charity bike ride to benefit the families of fellow officers who have died in the line of duty. Gary's dedication to the families of our State kept him involved in public service up until his death, doing his part to comfort and support Hoosiers as they confront the loss of a loved one. I know that he will be greatly missed.

Gary was a good and decent man who dedicated his life to serving others. From his work with the sheriff's department to his involvement in the community, his career and retirement were filled with acts of conscientious service on behalf of friends, family members, and Hoosiers across Indiana. The contributions he made touched countless lives, and he will be sorely missed.

Gary was a 25-year veteran of the Gary Police Department, where he attained the rank of assistant chief. He was appointed chief of the Lake County Sheriff's Department in 2002. And for the past three decades, Gary taught criminal justice at Indiana University Northwest. He devoted all of his energy to protecting and serving his community and to caring for his colleagues and their families in their time of need. He is survived by his wife Olga and two children, Greg and Jennifer.

Like all of his colleagues in law enforcement, Chief Martin made daily sacrifices to ensure the safety of our streets, our neighborhoods, and our families. In an increasingly dangerous world, we depend on our brave men and women like Gary to protect us from violence and other threats to our communities.

A lifelong Hoosier, he was also involved in numerous other public safety projects, including working to create a pilot program with Gary schools that sought to assure parents that their children would get to school, attend school, and return home safely. Lake County sheriff Rogelio ``Roy'' Domiguez recalled Martin's leadership and warmth, saying ``Gary was a friend and a mentor to everyone in law enforcement and our entire community. He will be greatly missed by the thousands of students, police officers and others who simply call him `friend'.'' It is a rare man who can make such an impact on so many people over the course of one life. Hoosiers will miss Gary as a friend, a community leader, and a tireless public servant.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Gary Martin in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to the State of Indiana.

Mr. President, I today pay tribute to Indiana State Police Lieutenant Gary Dudley for his decades of dedicated service to the people of Indiana and his extraordinary kindness toward the families of fallen Hoosier police officers. It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of gratitude that I honor the life of Lieutenant Dudley, who was killed on August 22 when he was struck by an automobile while participating in a charity bike ride to benefit the families of his fellow officers who have died in the line of duty. Gary's dedication to the families of our State kept him involved in public service up until his death, doing his part to comfort and support Hoosiers as they confront the loss of a loved one. I know he will be greatly missed.

Gary was a good and decent man who dedicated his life to serving others. From his work at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy to his involvement in the community, his career was filled with acts of conscientious service on behalf of friends, family members, and Hoosiers across Indiana. The contributions he made touched countless lives.

Lieutenant Dudley started his State police career as a trooper in 1979 and was promoted to sergeant in 1991, when he transferred to the training division. He was appointed commander of the Indiana State Police Recruit Academy in 1993. He devoted all of his energy to protecting and serving his community and to caring for his colleagues and their families in their time of need. He is survived by his wife Carolyn, his father Orsel Dudley, and a brother, Danny Dudley.

Like all of his colleagues in law enforcement, Lieutenant Dudley made daily sacrifices to ensure the safety of our streets, our neighborhoods, and our families. In an increasingly dangerous world, we depend on brave men like Gary to protect us from violence and other threats to our communities.

A lifelong Hoosier, he used his passion for cycling to help families of police officers who died in the line of duty. The COPS charity ride, which he started, was in its third year. Longtime friend Sergeant Dave Bursten recalled Dudley's selfless commitment to friends and strangers alike, saying ``Gary was very unique, beyond the proverbial `give you the shirt off his back.' He'd give you his pants, he'd give you his shoes, he'd give you his next to last dollar if you genuinely needed it. He was always there to help people.'' It is a rare man who can make such an impact on so many people over the course of one life. Hoosiers will miss Gary as a friend, a community leader, and a tireless public servant.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Gary Dudley in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to the State of Indiana.

Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the remarkable achievement of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, which was named ``National 2006 Agency of the Year'' by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America this summer.

This honor was achieved through the hard work and persistence of the entire staff, board of directors, Bigs, Littles, donors and other stakeholders. Headquartered in Fort Wayne, IN, the agency was established in August 1972 and continues to assist young adolescents who lack guidance and support by creating positive and enduring relationships between youth and adults and by supporting those relationships with appropriate screening, training and supervision. Presently, more than 1,100 area youth participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs in 10 Indiana counties and 2 Michigan counties.

Several factors contributed to the agency receiving this year's award. During the past 5 years, it has grown exponentially in many areas, from expanding the region it helps to increasing the length of the matches it provides, which grew by almost 120 percent between 2001 and 2005. The number of participating adult volunteers has increased by 90 percent since 2003, and the time taken to enroll those volunteers has been decreased by 60 days over the course of last 2 years, allowing more Bigs to be matched with more Littles, thereby fulfilling the Big Brothers Big Sisters mission of helping children to reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships with measurable impact.

In addition to being recognized as the National 2006 Agency of the Year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana was also a finalist in the categories of Board of the Year and Chief Executive Officer of the Year--the only agency to achieve this distinction. It should also be noted that all of these nominations were in the ``Large'' category, yet the Fort Wayne agency was considered mid-sized only a few years ago. Since that time, the organization's growth in programs and quality have bolstered it to the top among BBBS agencies in large metropolitan markets.

I have supported Federal funding for agency programs like the Amachi program, which pairs faith-based mentors in one-to-one matches with children of incarcerated parents, as well as its Lunch Buddies program, which pairs elementary school students with caring adult mentors for weekly lunch visits at the children's schools.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana makes a visible impact in the lives of Hoosier youths, and it is deserving of the recognition that it has received. I offer my sincere congratulations today and look forward to continuing to support to this exemplary organization in the future.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Idaville. Nathaniel S. Baughman, 23 years old, was killed on July 17th by rocket-propelled grenades while on duty in Bayji, Iraq. Nate risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Baughman enlisted in the Army National Guard last spring and shortly after was deployed to Iraq. He was on his last mission when he was killed and was due to return home to Indiana in a few weeks. Baughman was remembered by his mother, Jill Baughman, who told a local news outlet, ``He was a good dad, a great father. He was a hard worker who believed in what he was doing. We're proud of what he did for us, very proud of him.'' Nate was a 2001 graduate of Twin Lakes High School. He was married 2 years ago and had a son, Hunter, 4.

Nate was killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, KY. This brave soldier leaves behind his parents, Robert and Jill Baughman and Andy Skorup; twin brother Nick Skorup and brothers Ben, Joseph and Christopher Baughman; his wife Erin; son Hunter and Hunter's mother Amanda Conrad.

Today, I join Nate's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Nate, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Nate was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. Today and always, Nate will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Nate's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg: ``We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.'' This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Nate's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Nathaniel S. Baughman in the official record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Nate's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Nate.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave soldier from northern Indiana. Jeffrey McLochlin, father of three, died on July 5 in small- arms fire in Orgun-E, Afghanistan. Jeffrey risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

A city police officer in Rochester, Jeffrey had been a National Guardsman for 19 years. He was training Afghan soldiers in police tactics and was on patrol with coalition and Afghan forces when he was shot by antigovernment forces. Jeffrey was on his second tour of duty and had previously served his country in 2004 on a NATO peacekeeping mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina. A proud husband and father, he left behind his wife Nicholle and three children, Darby, 16, Connor, 8, and Kennedy, 5. Nicholle told a local paper, ``This man was amazing. There will never be another, that's for sure. Eighteen thousand miles away, and he called me daily when he could. He did everything he could to be a good father and a good husband.'' I stand here today to express my gratitude for Jeffrey's sacrifice and that of his family and loved ones.

Jeffrey was killed while serving his country in Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 152nd Infantry Regiment, Army National Guard, Marion, IN. In addition to his wife and children, this brave soldier leaves behind his parents, Rich and Cindy McLochlin of Rochester.

Today, I join Jeffrey's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely working at home and abroad to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Jeffrey, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Jeffrey was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. Today and always, Jeffrey will be remembered by family members, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Jeffrey's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg: ``We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.'' This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Jeffrey's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jeffrey McLochlin in the official record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Jeffrey's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah, who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Jeffrey.

Army Staff Sergeant Paul S. Pabla

Mr. President, I also rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Fort Wayne. Paul S. Pabla, 23 years old, was killed on July 3 by sniper fire in Mosul, in northern Iraq. Volunteering for deployment to Iraq, Paul risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Pabla enlisted in the National Guard while still a student at Huntington North High School in Huntington, where he graduated in 2000. Service to others came naturally to Paul, who in high school participated in church

youth mission work in Honduras. In Mosul, he especially enjoyed working with Iraqi children, calling them the ``future of Iraq.'' Pabla was remembered by his senior-year English teacher, who told a local news outlet, ``I think (enlisting) was something he felt really strongly about. Without question, he knew what he was getting into. He was really a young man with a sense of purpose.'' Paul was deployed to Iraq in January of 2006 on his first tour of duty there and had attained the rank of staff sergeant.

Paul was killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to B Battery, 3rd Battalion, 139th Field Artillery Regiment, 38th Infantry Division, Army National Guard, Kempton, IN. This brave soldier leaves behind his mother, Lisa Carroll; his father, Sarvjit Pabla; stepmother, Leticia Pabla; a brother, Neil Pabla; half brother, Nicholas Pabla; as well as numerous other relatives.

Today, I join Paul's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Paul, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Paul was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. Today and always, Paul will be remembered by family members, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Paul's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg: ``We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.'' This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Paul's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Paul S. Pabla in the official record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Paul's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah, who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Paul.

Mr. President, today I, along with Senator Cantwell, pay tribute to the life of a talented physician and respected citizen, Dr. Peter Alan McDonald, who passed away on June 15. I know he will be greatly missed in both Washington and his native Indiana.

Peter has left a rich legacy through his efforts to better the lives of others. From his studies in mathematics and medicine at Indiana University to his well-known work as a gifted and efficient emergency physician at St. Joseph Hospital, he dedicated himself to ensuring the welfare of those around him.

Peter's boundless passion for life led him to excel in many fields beyond his profession. An active outdoorsman and athlete, he found great joy in hockey, windsurfing, boating, and fishing. Family and friends may best remember Peter for his wonderful stories and sense of humor. He is survived by his wife, Kelli McDonald; his father, Alan McDonald; his mother, Mary Mandeville; his two brothers, Tom McDonald and Jeff McDonald; and his sister, Linda Frank.

While it is a tragedy to have Peter taken from us at such an early age, we can find comfort in the full life he led. It is a rare man who can make such an

impact on so many people throughout his years.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Dr. Peter McDonald in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to the States of Washington and Indiana. May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know he is with Peter.

Mr. President, it is my privilege today to pay tribute to 17 Hoosier men whose outstanding commitment to fatherhood serves as example of how responsible, involved dads can promote stronger families and raise exceptional children.

This year, I invited Hoosier children to pay tribute to their dads by writing essays about what makes their father an Outstanding Hoosier Dad.

In a nation that leads the world in absentee fatherhood, it is particularly important this Father's Day to recognize outstanding dads who are doing their part to raise bright, healthy children. Children whose fathers are absent are five times more likely to live in poverty and twice as likely to commit a crime, drop out of school or become substance abusers. The essays provided a touching reminder to all men of the impact they have when they play an active role in their children's lives.

It is an honor today to recognize the 17 Hoosier children who submitted essays and their outstanding dads by reading their names into the Congressional Record of the United States.

R. Bradley Allen, father of John Allen, South Bend

Ronnie Asher, father of Jessica Asher, Martinsville

Brian Bolsen, father of Brennan Bolsen, Chesterton

Neil Day, father of Adam Day, Fort Wayne

Chris Dixon, father of William Dixon, Bloomington

Kevin Ford, father of Kimberly Ford, Schererville

Jeff Gratz, father of Clare Gratz, Batesville

Tom Gutzwiller, father of Lawson Gutzwiller, Batesville

Samuel Hale, father of Greg Hale, Granger

Dennis Mansfield, father of Alison Mansfield, Fort Wayne

Matt McKaig, father of Caleb McKaig, Urbana

Jonathan Plucker, father of Paige Plucker, Bloomington

Frederick Richards, father of Corey Richards, Churubusco

Andy Schultz, father of Mary Kate Schultz, DeMotte

Mike Stefanski, father of Matthew Stefanski, Valparaiso

Amitav Thamba, father of Aish Thamba, Fishers

Wiley Traylor, father of Stephanie Traylor,

Mooresville

Mr. President, today I rise to pay tribute to the life of a distinguished civil servant and friend, Jerry W. Lee, who passed away on June 7. Jerry's dedication to the working families of our State kept him involved in public service up until his death, doing his part to help Hoosiers from all walks of life. I know that he will be greatly missed.

Jerry was a good and decent man who dedicated his life to serving others. From his work with organized labor to his involvement in the community, his career was filled with acts of conscientious service on behalf of friends, family members, and Hoosiers across Indiana. The contributions he made touched countless lives, and his presence and straight talk will be sorely missed.

For the past 20 years, Jerry served as secretary-treasurer and business manager of the Laborers' Indiana District Council, standing up for the working men and women of our State. He devoted all of his energy to ensuring good jobs at decent wages for his workers and helping take care of their families. He is survived by his mother; his wife, Benetta Jo Woodruff Lee; his son, Darren Lee; his three daughters, Stephanie Bean, Christina Brown and Connie Phillips; his two brothers, Sammy Joe Lee and Donald Dean Lee; 11 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A lifelong Hoosier, he was also involved in numerous other labor associations and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. It is a rare man who can make such an impact on so many people over the course of one life. Hoosiers will miss Jerry as a friend, a community leader, and an advocate for working Hoosiers.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jerry Lee in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to the State of Indiana.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave man from Avon. Richard Blakley, 34-years-old, was killed on June 6 from small arms fire while on patrol near Al Khalidiyah, Iraq. With so much of his life before him, Richard risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Richard was killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a member of Company E, 38th Main Support Battalion, Indianapolis. This brave soldier leaves behind his wife Patricia and two children, Whitney, 11, and Richard Jr., 9. He also leaves behind his mother, Janice Schauwecker, and father, James Blakley.

A medic in the Indiana National Guard, Richard's devotion to duty had been commemorated just months before his death, when he was presented with a Purple Heart following a wound from an enemy sniper in January. Because of his injury, Richard was offered a trip home and was urged to take time off to recuperate. Instead, he chose to return to active duty the same day.

Richard joined the Indiana Guard out of high school in 1989 and volunteered to serve in the Persian Gulf war and at U.S. ports in 2003 and 2004. In civilian life, Richard was a journeyman millwright, putting together machinery and heavy equipment. An avid Colts fan, Richard always wore a team shirt on game days, even if he was on patrol. He was wearing one on the day he was shot in January, and the Colts had planned to sign the bloodstained shirt and return it to him. Richard was also known for being a devoted father who was driven by a desire to help others! A friend and fellow Indiana National Guard member recalled to the Indianapolis Star Richard's dedication to those around him, saying ``It was just who he was. He wanted to be where the action was. He wanted to help people . . . '' His wife called her husband ``the strongest person I've ever known in my life.''

Today, I join Richard's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Richard, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Richard was known for his dedication to his family and his love of country. Today and always, Richard will be remembered by family members, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero and we honor the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Richard's sacrifice, I am reminded of President Lincoln's remarks as he addressed the families of the fallen soldiers in Gettysburg: ``We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.'' This statement is just as true today as it was nearly 150 years ago, as I am certain that the impact of Richard's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Richard Blakley in the official Record of the Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Richard's can find comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah, who said, ``He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.''

May God grant strength and peace to those who mourn, and may God be with all of you, as I know He is with Richard.

Mr. President, I am proud to have the opportunity today to honor Dennis Mansfield, an outstanding Hoosier dad, whose dedication to his 11-year-old daughter, Alison, was demonstrated in a heart-warming essay that she wrote recently.

Last month, in anticipation of Father's Day, I asked young people from across Indiana to write essays about their own outstanding fathers as a way of recognizing Hoosier men who working hard to be good fathers. Alison wrote a touching essay illustrating her father's commitment to helping her achieve her God-given potential, by encouraging her to excel in school and teaching her how to be a good citizen.

As a nation, we have far to go to reverse the trend of absentee fathers, but there are millions of men, including Dennis, who are already going the extra mile for their children, and they deserve our thanks this Father's Day. By holding men like Dennis up as responsible fathers, I also hope to encourage other men to play a bigger role in their children's lives.

Despite holding a demanding job in a hospital emergency room, Dennis always makes time for his daughter and has instilled in her the value of helping others. There is no question that the world would be a far better place if every child was able to have the support of a father like Dennis. By building strong family bonds, he has earned not only his daughter's love but serves as a role model for the community as well.

Today, I thank Dennis for his devotion to his daughter and for setting an example for all of us of what it means to be an outstanding dad. It is my honor to read Alison's essay into the Congressional Record of the United States:

I think my dad is outstanding for three reasons. First, he

is always there for me. Even when he is busy, Dad can always

find time to do something fun with me.

Second, Dad has taught me many important things. He has

been a great teacher from riding a bike, to being a good

citizen, to medical terminology and good character.

Third, Dad is also a good role model. He works in the

emergency room and sometimes has to work at night and sleep

during the day. I think it would be very stressful to handle

emergencies and keep a calm demeanor, but he always does. Dad

does this because he wants to help people. I admire him for

that.

Dad is outstanding because he is there for me, has fun with

me, teaches me, helps others and because he is simply a great

dad!--Alison R. Mansfield, age 11.

Mr. President, I am proud to have the opportunity today to honor Amitav Thamba, an outstanding Hoosier dad, whose dedication to his 9-year-old daughter, Aish, was demonstrated in a heart-warming essay that she wrote recently.

Last month, in anticipation of Father's Day, I asked young people from across Indiana to write essays about their own outstanding fathers as a way of recognizing Hoosier men who working hard to be good fathers. Aish wrote a touching essay illustrating her father's commitment to helping her achieve her God-given potential, by encouraging her to excel in school and become a good citizen.

As a nation, we have far to go to reverse the trend of absentee fathers, but there are millions of men, including Amitav, who are already going the extra mile for their children, and they deserve our thanks this Father's Day. By holding men like Amitav up as responsible fathers, I also hope to encourage other men to play a bigger role in their children's lives.

I echo Aish's concluding sentence about her father, which reads, ``He is the kind of Dad I wish every kid in the world had.'' There is no question that the world would be a far better place if every child was able to have the support of a father like Amitav. By building strong family bonds, he has earned not only his daughter's love, but he serves as a role model for the community as well.

Today, I thank Amitav for his devotion to his daughter and for setting an example for all of us of what it means to be an outstanding dad. It is my honor to read Aish's essay into the Congressional Record of the United States.

I was 3 years when my Dad first read to me ``The Lion

King.'' Today, I still enjoy the story!

In school, there is a program where we read books and take

tests on them. My Dad, in spite of his heavy work schedule,

has never missed any Reading Night or school function and has

motivated me to do my best. Thanks to Dad, I am an avid

reader and read more than 2,000 books in 3 years and the Top

Star Reader in my school since 2nd Grade.

My father a hard worker has taught me to be truthful, kind,

and respectful. My Dad has inspired me to donate supplies and

food to the Wheeler Mission and at the Marion County Juvenile

Center.

My father is a very important factor in all my success. He

is the kind of Dad I wish every kid in the world had.--Aish

Thamba, age 9.