Floor Statements

Mr. President, on rollcall vote No. 66, I was present and voted ``aye.'' The official record has me listed as ``absent.'' Therefore, I ask unanimous consent that the official record be corrected to accurately reflect my vote. This will in no way change the outcome of the vote.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Terre Haute. SGT Kyle W. Childress, 29 years old, died on January 21 when he was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire in Ad Duluiyah. With his entire life before him, Kyle risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After graduating from Terre Haute South Vigo High School in 1994, Kyle followed in his father's footsteps by joining the Army. According to family and friends, Kyle was a calm and easygoing young man whose decision to join one of the most challenging divisions of the Armed Forces was a surprise. Nevertheless, his mother told the Terre Haute Tribune Star that her son ``was proud'' of what he signed up to do.

Kyle was the 44th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to A Troop, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany. This brave young soldier leaves behind his mother, Nancy Knight; his father, Keith Childress; his sister, Gretta; and his brother, Jason.

Today, I join Kyle's family, his friends and the entire Terre Haute community 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 Kyle, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Kyle was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. His brother Jason told the Terre Haute Tribune Star that Kyle had been more than a brother to him, that he was his best friend. Jason recalled that Kyle had been his role model, ``He's the one who pretty much made me the person I am today.'' Today and always, Kyle

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 Kyle'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 Kyle's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Kyle Childress 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 Kyle'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 Kyle.

I ask my colleague from Texas, which of us was on the floor first?

I thought I was supposed to speak at 12:10. So I guess the trains are not running on schedule today.

Mr. President, I thank the Senator from Texas for her courtesy, and I pledge I will do my best to finish in 10 minutes or less.

It is a pleasure to be on the floor today with my friend and colleague from Indiana. I have often thought that events around the world, and particularly in Iraq, would have gone so much better if those in a position to make policy for our country had listened to his wise counsel and advice. It is not often I find myself in disagreement with my friend, but on this occasion I do.

I rise to express my opposition to the nomination of Condoleezza Rice and her proposed promotion to that of the position of Secretary of State--not because I object to her personally; I do not; not because I oppose the mission of establishing freedom and democracy in Iraq; on the contrary, I support it; but because I believe she has been a principal architect of policy errors that have tragically undermined our prospects for success in this endeavor.

Those in charge must be held accountable for mistakes. We must learn from them, correct them, so we may succeed in Iraq. If the President of the United States will not do this, then those in the Senate must.

The list of errors is lengthy and profound, and, unfortunately, many could have been avoided if Dr. Rice and others had only listened to the counsel offered from both sides of the aisle.

From the beginning of this undertaking, we have had inadequate troop strength to accomplish the mission. The mission was, of course, not to simply realize regime change in Iraq but, instead, to recognize and accomplish nation building at its most profound. We violated a fundamental tenet of planning for war, which is to plan for the worst and hope for the best. Instead, all too often in Iraq we have hoped for the best and, instead, are reaching the worst.

The advice to have greater troop strength was not partisan. Our colleagues, Senator McCain, Senator Hagel, and others, virtually pleaded with the administration to provide for greater security through troop strength on the ground. Those pleas fell on deaf ears.

We have never had a realistic plan for the aftermath of this conflict. The State Department made plans. They were disregarded. The CIA warned of the potential for a growing insurgency. Their concerns were dismissed. Senator Lugar held hearings that were prescient in this regard, pointing out the importance of planning for the aftermath and the inadequacy of the preparation for the aftermath before the war. The results of those hearings were ignored.

This is no ordinary incompetence. Men and women are dying as a result of these mistakes. Accountability must be had. We dismissed the Iraqi Army.

In my trip to Iraq in December, one of our top ranking officials told me there that things today in Iraq would be 100-percent better--100- percent better--if we had only not dismissed the Iraqi Army; not the generals, not the human rights violators, not those who should be held accountable for their own actions, but the privates, the corporals, the lieutenants, the captains, those who should be on our side providing for stability and security in Iraq and now, tragically, are being paid to kill Americans because we sent them home and said they had no future in the Iraq that we were hoping to build.

Likewise, we disqualified all former Baathists from serving even in lower levels of the bureaucracy in that country. They could have helped us run the nation. They could have helped us to reassure the Sunni community that we wanted to reincorporate them in the future of Iraq. Instead, many of them are fighting us today in Iraq as well.

All of these mistakes have substantially undermined our prospects for success, and tragically so. The chaos that has arisen from the lack of security and stability has fed this insurgency.

I asked one of our top ranking officials in Iraq in December which was growing more quickly, our ability to train Iraqis to combat the insurgency or the insurgency itself? His two-word response: The insurgency. Unfortunately, in some regards we have even succeeded in discrediting the very cause for which we are fighting and dying today. I listened intently to the President's inaugural address on the steps of this Capitol in which he spoke repeatedly about the need to advocate freedom and liberty and democracy around the world, not only because it is in our interest but because it is in the interest of peace and stability across the planet as a whole. In that regard he is right.

But I could not help but recall the words of a member of the Iraqi Electoral Commission, a Turkoman from Kirkuk, who finally looked at me in Baghdad and said: Senator, you do not understand. For too many of my people, when they hear the word ``democracy,'' they think violence, they think disorder, they think death and economic disintegration.

It does not get much sadder than that. It is heartbreaking that the sacrifices that have been made, the idealism of our troops, America's prospects for success in Iraq, our very standing in the world, have too often been undercut by ineptitude at the highest levels of our own Government.

I think of a visit, 6 months ago, with some of our colleagues to Walter Reed Army Hospital to visit with some of the soldiers who have returned. They are constantly on my mind. I think of their idealism, their heroism, their perseverance in the face of an adversity that those of us who are not there can hardly imagine.

We have a moral obligation to provide better leadership than that which has been provided in this conflict. Too often this administration has suggested that the refusal to admit error, to learn from error, to correct error is a virtue. When lives and limbs are at stake, it is not.

As a former executive of our own State, I have always believed that accountability for performance is vitally important to success. If this President will not provide it, then it is up to those of us in the Senate to do so.

I believe with all of my heart that our country is strongest when we stand for freedom and democracy. We are attempting to accomplish the right thing in Iraq. We have been the authors of much of our own misery. As a result of that, I cannot find it in my heart or in my mind to vote for the promotion of Dr. Rice. Accountability is important. I will vote no and urge my colleagues to do the same.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Beech Grove. Army PVT Cory R. Depew, 21 years old, died on January 4 when the Stryker military vehicle he was riding in was struck by rocket- propelled grenades just west of Mosul, Iraq. With his entire life before him, Cory risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After graduating from high school, Cory went on to pursue a dream he had been working toward since he was in the eighth grade. In September of 2003, Cory made his dream a reality by enlisting in the United States Army. Cory's mother, Sheryl Ann, recalled her son's determined spirit when speaking to the Indianapolis Star saying, ``He was going to the military, he wanted to serve his country. . . . He was a hero. He gave his life for this country.''

Cory was the 44th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 14th Calvary Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, based in Fort Lewis, Washington. This brave young soldier leaves behind his mother, Sheryl Ann May; his son, Brendan Favre; his brothers, Wyatt and Elliot; and his grandfather, Austin Hall.

Today, I join Cory's family, his friends and the entire Beech Grove community 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 Cory, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Cory was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. When reflecting on Cory's life, his mother told the Indianapolis Star that her son's best attributes had been on display while he was home on a two-week leave only a few months ago, ``his `wise guy' sense of humor, his love of children, his hard work.'' During his short break, Cory spent time playing with his son, Branden and volunteered to help build a new garden at his church, a place where his mother and many others now go to find solace. Today and always, Cory 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 Cory'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 Cory's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Cory R. Depew in the official record of the United States 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 Cory'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 Cory.

Lance Corporal Eric Hillenburg

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Hendricks County. LCpl Eric Hillenburg, twenty-one years old, died on December 23 during a patrol when he was struck by small-arms fire in Fallujah. With his entire life before him, Eric risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After graduating from Chapel Hill Christian School with honors, Eric went on to become a Marine, a dream he first set his sight on at the young age of 14. According to family and friends, Eric followed a long- standing tradition of service as his family has proudly served our country in every conflict since the Civil War. When reflecting upon the loss of his son to members of his congregation at Hope Baptist Church, Rev. Hillenburg expressed his deep sense of pride and patriotism saying, ``When I see that flag flying from now on, it will mean more to me than ever before. . . . When I see a young man in uniform, he will be my son.'' According to the Indianapolis Star, the congregation stood and applauded these heartfelt remarks. I stand here today to express the same sentiments of gratitude for Eric's sacrifices and for those made by the entire Hillenburg family on behalf of our country.

Eric was the 43rd Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. This brave young soldier leaves behind his mother, Pamela; his father, Jerry; his sister, Erin; and his brother, Evin.

Today, I join Eric's family, his friends and the entire Indianapolis community 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 Eric, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Eric was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. Today and always, Eric 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 Eric'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 Eric's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Eric Hillenburg in the official record of the United States 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 Eric'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 Eric.

Mr. President, I speak today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude in honor of the life of a brave young man from Shelbyville, IN. SGT Jeremy R. Wright, 31 years old, died on January 3 during a patrol when the vehicle he was riding in was struck by a roadside bomb near Kabul. With his entire life before him, Jeremy risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

A 1992 graduate of Southwestern High School, Jeremy went on to attend Wabash College where he won the NCAA Division III Great Lakes regional title in 1993 for distance running and graduated with honors as a chemistry major. Jeremy joined the Army in 2002, pursuing his long-time fascination with the military. Like most things Jeremy set his mind to, he was successful in his military career, becoming a member of the elite Green Beret. Wabash spokesman Jim Amidon shared memories of the former student with the Associated Press, saying his ``rare combination of intellect, courage, discipline and passion made him a naturally brilliant distance runner . . . Those are the same qualities that made him a fine soldier, too, the kind of officer our country needs in the military.''

Jeremy was killed while serving his country in Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group, Fort Lewis, WA. This brave young soldier leaves behind his mother, Jackie Nickel and his father, Dale Wright.

Today, I join Jeremy's family, his friends and the entire Shelbyville community 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 Jeremy, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Jeremy was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. Today and always, Jeremy 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 Jeremy'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 Jeremy's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jeremy R. Wright in the official record of the United States 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 Jeremy'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 Jeremy.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man who lived in Marion, IN as a child. PFC Joshua Ramsey, 19 years old, died on December 12 when he was shot while carrying out his duties in Iraq. With his entire life before him, Joshua risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After attending Oak Hill Junior High School for the eighth grade, Joshua moved to Defiance, OH where his father and stepmother live. Joshua, a 2003 graduate of the Four County Career Center, left a strong impression not only on his classmates but his teachers as well. One of his high school teachers, Tonya Fisher, shared some memories of her former student with the Marion Chronicle Tribune saying, ``He was a good student and a good classmate. He worked really hard in class and was really dedicated. He knew he wanted to go to the military...He's very family-oriented. He struggled with leaving his family, but he really believed in what he was fighting for.'' Joshua's mother, Joy, recalled her son's bravery during a conversation she had with him not long ago. He told her, ``Mom, I have one of the most dangerous jobs in the Army, but I wouldn't have it any other way.''

Joshua was the 42nd Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 95th Military Police Battalion, Mannheim, Germany. This brave young soldier leaves behind his mother, Joy; his father, Bruce; and his stepmother, LeAnn.

Today, I join Joshua's family, his friends and the entire Hoosier community 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 Joshua, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Joshua was known for his dedication to others and his love of family and country. When looking back on Joshua's life, his grandmother, Margaret, told the Marion Chronicle Tribune that he had loved golf, was on the wrestling team and ran track. Today and always, Joshua 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 Joshua'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 Joshua's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Joshua Ramsey in the official record of the United States 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 Joshua'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 Joshua.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Otterbein, IN. Corporal Bryan Wilson, twenty-two years old, died on December 1 as a result of injuries sustained in a Humvee crash in the Al Anbar Province. With his entire life before him, Bryan risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After graduating from Seeger Memorial High School in 2001, Bryan joined the Marines. His mother-in-law, Linda, told the Lafayette Journal & Courier that Bryan ``knew when he graduated that he was going to be a Marine . . . He was very brave, and we're so proud of him. He made the ultimate sacrifice for all of us.''

Bryan was the fortieth Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. This brave young soldier leaves behind his wife Samantha; his parents Charles and Brenda Wilson; his brothers Lonnie and Adam; and his 20-month-old daughter Breanne. May Bryan's daughter grow up knowing that her father fought bravely, giving his own life so that young Iraqis can some day know the freedom she enjoys.

Today, I join Bryan's family, his friends and the entire Hoosier community 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 Bryan, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Bryan was known for his dedication to serving others and his love of family and country. When looking back on Bryan's life, his wife Samantha told the Associated Press that he had been determined to serve his country and that ``he would never have changed his mind about going.'' Today and always, Bryan 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 Bryan'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 Bryan's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Bryan Wilson 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 Bryan'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 Bryan.

Lance Corporal Adam R. Brooks, Usmc

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Kokomo, IN. LCpl James Swain, 20 years old, died on November 15th. When his unit was faced with determining who among them would go to Iraq, James volunteered--a selfless choice that would cost him his life. James was shot while conducting combat operations in the Al Anbar province of Iraq. With his entire life before him, James risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

After graduating from Kokomo High School in 2002, James followed a long-standing family tradition by joining the Armed Forces. His father Dan told the Kokomo Tribune that James had always enjoyed hearing stories of his days as an Army medic. However, James chose the path of his grandfather, who had also been a marine. According to friends and loved ones, James was born to serve and had touched many lives with his service and his generous spirit. He had dreams of continuing to help his country by becoming a criminal profiler for the CIA or FBI.

James was the 39th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marines, Regimental Combat Team-1, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA. This brave young soldier leaves behind his parents, Dan and Mona Swain; his grandfather, Edward Swain; his brother, Benjamin Swain; and his sisters, Mary Ann and Melissa Swain.

Today, I join James' family, his friends, and the entire Hoosier community 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 James, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

James was known for his dedication to serving others and his love of family and country. When looking back on James' life, Charlie Hall, a former coach at Kokomo High School, told the Kokomo Tribune, ``Anything he tried, he did to the fullest. He did well. I think it says a lot about the quality of our service people if there are people like James serving.'' His high school principal Harold Canady remembered him by saying, ``James was an outstanding young man . . . The best way I can describe him is that he is the all-American boy. He chose to serve his country and was willing to make that sacrifice.'' Today and always, James 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 James' 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 James' actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of James Swain 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 James' 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 James.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Brownsburg, IN. Sgt Morgan W. Strader, 23 years old, died on November 12. After completing his enlistment, Morgan voluntarily extended his service, choosing to accompany his unit back to Iraq--a selfless choice that would cost him his life. Morgan was shot while conducting combat operations in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. With his entire life before him, Morgan risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Before moving to Crossville, TN, Morgan attended school in Brownsburg. Morgan graduated from high school and followed in his grandfather's footsteps by joining the military. Morgan's father, Gary, told the Indianapolis Star that ``He was a Marine from the day that he was born . . . His grandfather was in the Army during Korea. He latched onto that and loved it.'' It was clear that from a young age, Morgan felt compelled to serve his country in the Armed Forces, just as his grandfather had done.

Morgan was the thirty-seventh Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, Regimental Combat Team-1, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA. This brave young soldier leaves behind his father and stepmother, Gary and Janet; his mother and stepfather, Linda and Timothy; his grandparents, Onza and Estelle Morgan; his grandfather, William Strader; his sisters, Amber, Jessica and Rachel; and his brothers, Brian, Chris and Matthew.

Today, I join Morgan's family, his friends and the entire Hoosier community 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 Morgan, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Morgan was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. When looking back on Morgan's life, his father, Gary, recalled to the Indianapolis Star a conversation that he had with his son shortly before his departure for a second tour in Iraq. Gary was trying to convince his son that he had done his part and his service was complete. Morgan told his father upon deciding to reenlist, `` Dad, the guys in my unit aren't experienced in this . . . I need to help them.'' Morgan died in the same fashion in which he had lived by putting the well-being of others before his own. Today and always, Morgan 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 Morgan'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 Morgan's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Morgan W. Strader 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 Morgan'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 Morgan.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Kokomo, IN. Corporal Lance M. Thompson, 21 years old, died on November 15. Lance was killed by an improvised explosive devise while conducting combat operations in the Al-Anbar Province of Iraq. With his entire life before him, Lance risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

A 2001 graduate of Eastbrook High School, Lance followed in his brother Phillip's footsteps by joining the Marines. His father, Gregory, told the Kokomo Tribune that his son had been a committed member of the Armed Forces and believed in what the Marines were doing in Iraq. Reflecting on Lance's life, his half-brother, Matt, told the Marion Chronicle-Tribune that his ``motto'' had been ``gung-ho.'' This selfless dedication carried Lance through his first tour of duty in Iraq and led him back again for a second tour, which began in September of this year.

Lance was the 38th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine, 2-Battalion Combat Team, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA. This brave young soldier leaves behind his wife, Dawn; his father, Gregory; his mother, Melanie; his brother, Phillip; and his half-brother, Matt.

Today, I join Lance's family, his friends and the entire Kokomo community 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 Lance, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Lance was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. According to friends and loved ones, he also enjoyed spending time outdoors, being with children and animals, and was always making jokes. Today and always, Raymond 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 Lance'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 Lance's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Lance M. Thompson in the official Record of the United States 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 Lance'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 Lance.

sergeant russell l. collier

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Elwood, IN. Specialist Raymond L. White, 22 years old, died on November 12 during an ambush in Baghdad, Iraq. Choosing not to hide within the safety of the armored Humvee in which he was riding, Raymond returned fire. During this selfless attempt to protect other members of his company, Raymond was shot. With his entire life before him, Raymond risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

A 2001 graduate of Frankton Junior-Senior High School, Raymond went on to attend the New Mexico Military Institute for 2 years before following a long-standing family tradition of joining the military. According to friends and loved ones, Raymond was pleased to follow in the footsteps of his father, uncle and great-uncle. His mother Sharon recalled to the Indianapolis Star a time when she asked Raymond why he wanted to go to Iraq. He responded simply, ``Well, Mom, it's my patriotic duty.''

Raymond was the thirty-sixth Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. This brave young soldier leaves behind his parents, Sharon and Henry White and his brothers, Henry, Daniel and Jessie.

Today, I join Raymond's family, his friends and the entire Elwood community 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 Raymond, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Raymond was known for his dedication to family and his love of country. When looking back on Raymond's life, family friend Don Cox told the Indianapolis Star that ``He grew up to be a very fine young man.'' His father, Henry, recounted to the Indianapolis Star the description of Raymond's heroic efforts that he received from his commander, highlighting the fact that his son had died in the same fashion in which he had lived. ``He always put others first,'' Henry said. Today and always, Raymond 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 Raymond'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 Raymond's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Raymond L. White in the official record of the United States 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 Raymond'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 Raymond.

Mr. President, I wish to tell you about the extraordinary young Hoosiers I recently had the privilege to meet. Last month, I hosted my second annual Service Leaders Summit to honor high school students from across Indiana for their service and dedication to their communities and hopefully to inspire them to continue serving throughout their lives.

The young men and women I met last month have answered the call to service. Some of them have helped build homes, some tutored and mentored younger students, and others have raised money to support cancer research and to feed the hungry. Several of the young men and women started service clubs on their own to address the problems in their schools and communities. Each one of the students I met spent hours making a difference in their hometowns and together they have impacted the lives of thousands of Hoosiers.

The student leaders heard from Hoosiers of all backgrounds who have chosen to dedicate their lives to serving others. The speakers focused on the different aspects that make up a successful service project: inspiration, organization, dedication, evaluation and reflection. Following the speeches, the students and I prepared care packages to send to Hoosier troops serving in Iraq. Later, the students planted nearly 170 trees at a local park. Through their work together, these student leaders were able to experience the dramatic results from the power of service.

Robert F. Kennedy once said that ``Some men see things as they are and say `Why?' I dream of things that never were and say, `Why not?' '' Each one of these young men and women have already asked themselves ``why not?'' and have worked to make positive changes in their communities. They represent a new generation of promise with the potential to make a real difference across Indiana and the Nation.

I would like to thank each one of the following individuals for participating in the summit and for their service to their communities: Jennifer Ahoni, Kayla Ambers, Ashley Amerman, Carrie Anderson, Emily Backer, Kristy Backfish, Robin Baker, Shayla Bearman, Jennifer Behzadi, William Bennett, Hannah Bessinger, Natalie Binkholder, Joseph Bizjak, Allison Blumenthal, Jessica Bougs, Theodore Bourke, Josh Bowman, Eric Brichto, Bethany Brisco, Benjamin Brock, Sabrina Bruce, Stefan Burk, Mitch Burk, Jennifer Burks, Tyler Camp, Stacey Carroll, David Chan, Abby Charlesworth, Maria Clark, Chelsie Clausar, Michael Coffee, Nick Creager, Kelley Day, Jill Devine, Sydney DeVries, Caitlin DeWater, Lauren Dinsmore, Shane Dixon, Danielle Dresner, Stefanie Dyar, Chloie Eavinger, Kahler Elliott, Alyssa Flannery, Jeniece Fleming, Michelle Foisy, John Ford, Matthew Frye, Marcus Gadison, Christina Gephart, Julie Gidley, Emily Giles, Matt Green, Nicole Hakes, Deiter Hammerstein, Katelyn Hausman, Jennifer Hayden, Cory Heimann, Kristy Hentchel, Eric Hilton, Lorin Hinsberger, Daniel Hodgkiss, Julia Horn, Yin Huang, Maurice Jackson, Jonathan Jackson, Ryan Johnson, Jonathan Jones, Amanda Jursic, Caitlin Kelley, Krystle King, Kyle Kinnett, Becky Klimaszewski, Lana Knox, Jeremy Kunzman, Andrew Landis, Michelle Lavengood, Alyssa Lee, Kara Levell, Cassandra Lewis, Kristen Liming, Cara Lonis, Lauren Looney, Shandra Lynch, Kevina Lyons, Connie Mach, Meredith Marschand, Krystle Martin, Emelie Martlage, Sarah Matney, Mallory McClain, Bernie McGee, Brittney McPheeters, Lauren Mesinger, Bryan Meyer, Andrea Miller, Mark Modesitt, Jessica Moore, Alex Munder, Cassie Myers, Jessica Niksich, Collin Northcutt, Tyler Orem, Nick Oschman, Elizabeth Otte, Joyce Partyka, Heather Peebles, Steven Pelych, Monica Poplawski, Kolin Pound, Sheena Reed, Sieyda Requeno, Meredith Ress, Elizabeth Rice, Rachel Robbins, Brooke Robertson, Ashley Rodarmel, Zach Rodgers, Chantal Roullins, Kimberly Roush, Ben Schrodt, Allison Shafer, Megan Sikes, Jessica Singleton, Anthony Smith, Larissa Smith, Kristen Stout, Hannah Streeval, James Strycker, Randall Suggs, Kate Summers, Megan Sutherland, Katie Terrell, Lindsay Terry, Tracey Todd, David Toupin, Nicole Tow, Lyndsay Trauner, Brandon Tucker, Melissa Van Westrum, James Victery, Ryan Waggoner, Ben Walker, Shaun Wendel, Lauren Wendling, Sarah Wermuth, Alexander Whiteman, J.D. Willett, Chase Winkle, Olivia Worland, Taryn Zubel.

Mr. President, I have an amendment I send to the desk and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the reading of the amendment be dispensed with.

Mr. President, I begin my remarks by praising both Senators Reid and McConnell for the important work they have done on this underlying amendment. They have accomplished some very good things that will strengthen the intelligence system in this country and, in so doing, strengthen our Nation's security.

I have had the honor of serving on the Intelligence Committee for the last 3 or 4 years. During that time, I have developed some grave concerns about the strength of that committee and our ability to exert the kind of oversight and leadership in the area of strengthening the Nation's intelligence that these difficult times demand.

Senators Reid and McConnell have addressed some of those concerns very directly. Tenure on the panel is made permanent, which will allow those of us who serve there to develop the kind of expertise needed for the very intricate, sophisticated decisions that need to be made.

It will also enable us to exert the kind of oversight necessary to make

sure the executive branch carries out its functions in the way they need to be carried out.

They also provide resources to the committee to discharge our duties. Currently, the resources are not available and I am afraid that too often the Intelligence Committee gives the appearance of exerting oversight without effective oversight in fact. These things, and many others, are significant steps forward in addressing the concerns about what changes we need to make to have meaningful intelligence oversight and leadership in the intelligence area by the Congress.

I would also like to praise my colleague from Virginia, Senator Warner. There is not a Member for whom I have more esteem and regard than the Senator from Virginia. It has been my privilege over the last year and a half to serve with him on the Armed Services Committee. In that capacity I have learned firsthand that there is no Member of this body who has a greater devotion to the national well-being and our Nation's security than the distinguished senior Senator from Virginia.

With that by way of background, I would like to extend my remarks in the following way. I know the Senators who worked on this issue have worked hard. In some respects, Senators Reid and McConnell have been given by our leaders almost an impossible task. They are asking them to reorganize this Congress in ways that touch upon the prerogatives and institutional interests of the Members. This is a very sensitive topic which often has failed to achieve results in the past. I salute them for their efforts.

It is said by some that this is the best we can do, and perhaps that is so. But I believe there are some ways in which we can do better, and we will not know if we can do better until we try. If we are unable to do better, it is not the fault of Senators Reid and McConnell but instead resides with the rest of us who have the privilege of serving in this institution.

It is also occasionally said that we should not make the perfect the enemy of the good, and that is absolutely true. That is an aphorism I have subscribed to on many occasions. This needs to be a practical process, focused upon results. It is what distinguishes us from political scientists, editorial writers, and pundits. We have to get things done.

But during these critical times, it is my heartfelt belief that we should push the envelope on what is possible and insist that we do everything we possibly can to strengthen this country and, along with it, Congress, and our ability to exert oversight and leadership in the area of intelligence. We should not settle for 75 percent or even 90 percent without an effort to do everything humanly possible to safeguard this country. Lives hang in the balance. That is why I am offering the amendment I offer today.

My amendment reflects the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. Today, former Governor Kean and Congressman Hamilton issued a statement supporting our efforts. I spoke with Congressman Hamilton yesterday, and he characterized our amendment as ``much better, much better, a definite step in the right direction.''

Our amendment represents the sensible center. I know there may be other amendments that touch upon the topic of consolidating appropriations and authorizations in a single committee. Our amendment does not touch upon that sensitive topic. Instead, it gives full meaning to what Senators Reid and McConnell are attempting to do in their amendment, and that is to elevate the Intelligence Committee and the function it discharges to the priority it deserves and to create a process and structure to match that priority.

Their proposal makes the Intelligence Committee what is called an A committee. It is important that we give that full meaning and no longer require that committee to defer to others through what is called ``on- demand sequential referral.'' To the viewers at home, on C-SPAN, this sounds like Washington-speak, and essentially it is. What it essentially means is the Intelligence Committee must seek the approval of other committees for its other recommendations, unlike the other A committees that exist in this body. If we stick with this proposal, it will mean that the Intelligence Committee and the function it discharges will have less authority than the Agriculture Committee, less authority than the Banking Committee, less authority than the Commerce Committee, the Energy Committee, the Environmental Committee, the Governmental Affairs Committee, the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and the Judiciary Committee. Certainly these critical times require that the Intelligence Committee and the important national security function that it discharges be placed on a par with these other committees and that it be given a structure and authority to match.

As a practical matter, the current structure means that the appropriations process takes precedence over the authorization of intelligence. As a practical matter, too often it means that the intelligence authorization function itself is subservient to other authorizing committees. This is not the structure these times demand. This is what my amendment addresses.

Finally, this is an important moment for this institution and for each of us as individuals. This is a great institution, and I, among all our Members, have special reason to cherish its prerogatives and its rich tradition, having grown up in the shadow of the Senate.

Everyone who serves in this body is a patriot. Everyone is devoted to the national security interests of this country. All of us seek to do not what is easy but what is right. Yet it is too often the case that we are afflicted by tunnel vision. Too often we get caught up in institutional concerns and prerogatives without stepping back to take the broader view of what is important for the country as a whole. That is what we are attempting to address in this debate today. It requires a sacrifice from us all. That is what this amendment would accomplish-- giving up a small amount of our individual power and prerogatives in the greater national interest. It is what the times demand. It is what this amendment would accomplish. It is why I speak strongly in favor of its consideration.

Mr. President, I will yield the floor.

Mr. President. I commend the Senator from New York for her work on the section of the McCain-Lieberman-Bayh-Specter amendment to the 9/11 legislation that addresses education in the Muslim world. The provision commits the United States to taking a comprehensive approach to universal basic education in Muslim countries and requires our government to develop a cooperative plan to achieve this visionary goal. The 9/11 Commission understood that expanding education that emphasizes moderation, tolerance and the skills needed to compete in the global economy in these countries will create an alternative to hate and will show that the United States is committed to expanding opportunity in countries where we are often competing with our enemies for hearts and minds. It is only through a long-term public diplomacy strategy that we will win the war on terrorism, and modern education is a foundation of that effort. I would like to thank Senator Clinton for her assistance in drafting the education provisions in this bill We could not have achieved such a comprehensive approach to education without her involvement, and we appreciate her efforts.

Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to and honor the life of James Davis, a Butler University Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty on September 24, 2004. Officer Davis was shot down by a gunman while investigating reports of a suspicious person inside Hinkle Fieldhouse, the campus arena.

On Friday morning, Officer Davis left his patrol car to seek out a man who had refused to exit Hinkle Fieldhouse where students were practicing basketball. A member of Butler's police force since January 2003, Officer Davis, a 31-year-old husband and father of three had his entire life before him when he confronted the suspect, a selfless act that would cost him his life.

Officer Davis graduated from Indiana University in 1995 with a double major in criminal justice and Afro-American studies before entering his career of service. After retiring from the Army as a military policeman, Officer Davis spent a year supervising juvenile offenders as a youth service officer for the Indiana Department of Transportation. He also worked as a drill instructor for troubled youth in a program called Project Impact.

Above all, Officer Davis was a devoted family man who relished his time with loved ones. He dedicated his life to the noblest of causes; his family, his job and keeping others safe. Officer Davis leaves behind his wife, Veleeda and his three young children, Josiah, 8, Jarren, 3, and Jaedyn, who will be two in December. May his children grow up knowing that their father was a brave, hard-working and loving man.

In the wake of his death, friends, neighbors and fellow officers came together to remember and celebrate the life of Officer Davis. Butler Police Chief David Selby described Officer Davis to the Indianapolis Star as ``an outstanding officer . . . and a very good friend to all of us,'' adding that he would be missed by many. Those who knew him well recall Officer Davis' dedication to his job and his efforts to help troubled teens. A friend remembered Officer Davis' strong belief that there were ``no bad children, just children who made bad decisions or came from a bad environment.''

Throughout his career, Officer Davis distinguished himself as a policeman who genuinely cared about the students he was working to protect. Students recall him as someone who could be counted on for a safe ride home from class if he spotted them walking alone in the dark and by fellow officers as a devoted member of their team. His brave and caring actions leave behind an unforgettable impression of the kind of man he was.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of James L. Davis into the United States Congressional Record. As Officer Davis rests with God in eternal peace, let us never forget the courage and sacrifice he displayed when he laid down his life on September 24, 2004.