Floor Statements

Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the life of a distinguished public servant and a true friend, Judge Gene E. Brooks, who passed away Monday, April 19, 2004. His long life was filled with conscientious service and unwavering dedication to our State and Nation. The contributions he made to American jurisprudence, combined with the many lives he touched along the way, leave behind a positive legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

Judge Brooks began his career in public service by honorably serving our country with the United States Marines during the Korean War. He earned his undergraduate degree from the Indiana State Teachers College and went on to study law at the Indiana University School of Law. Judge Brooks practiced law as a prosecuting attorney and in private practice in Posey County, IN, from 1960 to 1968. He was then appointed to serve as the first full-time bankruptcy judge for the Southern District of Indiana, where he worked until 1979, when President Jimmy Carter appointed Judge Brooks as a United States District Court Judge. His nomination was forwarded to President Carter by my father, Senator Birch Bayh. Judge Brooks went on to become the Chief Judge of the Southern District in 1987.

The positive imprints Gene made upon the United States legal landscape came not only through his many judicial rulings, but also through his active role as advisor to the United States Congress, as well as his membership and leadership as former president of the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges. In addition to his professional service, Judge Brooks was an active member of many community organizations, including the Indiana Legal Aid Society, the Kiwanis Club, Toastmasters, the Indiana State Museum Foundation, and the Evansville Petroleum Club. He was a Kentucky Colonel and a 32nd Degree Mason.

Judge Brooks is survived by his wife, Jan Darlene (Gibson) Brooks; his three sons, Gene E. ``Geno'' Brooks Jr., Marc E. Brooks, Gregory A. Brooks; his daughter, Stephanie Jobe; his sister, Joyce Brochman; and his three grandchildren.

Judge Brooks was a man who walked with kings, but never lost the common touch. The citizens of the State of Indiana and the United States of America were well served by the life led by the Honorable Judge Brooks. Gene was a dedicated family man and public servant. He touched many lives over the

course of his career and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and an incredible leader.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Gene E. Brooks in the official Record of the U.S. Senate. May God be with all who mourn his passing, as I know He is with Gene.

Madam President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Indianapolis, IN. PFC Deryk L. Hallal, 24 years old, died in the al- Anbar province, just west of Baghdad on April 6, 2004. He was struck by gunfire during an attack.

Deryk graduated from North Central High School in 1998 and studied computer programming at the Professional Careers Institute before joining the Marines last year, just months after the conflict in Iraq began. He was a rifleman assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, based at Camp Pendleton, CA. According to his mother, he was fulfilling the duty he felt compelled to do after the events of September 11. With his entire life before him, Deryk chose to risk everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Deryk was the 27th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This brave

young soldier leaves behind his father, Jeff; his mother, Pam; and four younger siblings. May Deryk's siblings grow up knowing that their brother gave his life so that young Iraqis will some day know the freedom they enjoy.

Today, I join Deryk's family, his friends, and the entire Indianapolis community in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over his death, 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 Deryk, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

When looking back on the life of her late son, Deryk's mother, Pam, told the Indianapolis Star that her son ``was a big jokester, he would light up the room.'' Deryk was known for his wonderful sense of humor, his big heart and his love of sports. His father, Jeff, said Deryk dreamed of one day becoming a sports announcer. Today and always, Deryk 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 Deryk'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 Deryk's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Deryk L. Hallal 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 Deryk'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 bless America.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Valparaiso, IN. Private First Class John Amos II, 22 years old, died in the northern city of Kirkuk, Iraq on April 4, 2004, during an attack when the military vehicle he was riding in was struck by an improvised explosive device.

After graduating from Valparaiso High School in 2002, John joined the Army and was assigned to the C Company, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, HI. According to his mother, John was serving as the rear guard during a patrol at the time of his death. His deployment began when he joined the efforts in Iraq only 2 months ago. With his entire life before him, John chose to risk everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

John was the 26th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This brave young soldier leaves behind his father, John; his mother, Susan; his grandfather, Hank Amos; grandparents Doug and Lucy Whitehead; his sister, Rebecca; and his two half brothers Hunter and Tyler. May John's siblings grow up knowing that their brother gave his life so that young Iraqis will some day know the freedom they enjoy.

Today I join John's family, his friends, and the entire Valparaiso community in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over his death, 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 John, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

When looking back on the life of her late son, John's mother, Susan, told the Gary Post-Tribune that her son ``was a fun-loving kid and a lot of fun.'' Today and always, John will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring John'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 John's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.''

It is my sad duty to enter the name of John D. Amos II 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 John'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 bless America.

Mr. President, I rise today with great sadness and tremendous gratitude to honor the life of a

brave law enforcement officer from Mishawaka. Corporal Thomas Roberts was only 43 years old when his life was taken from him in an instant. He died during the predawn hours of December 13, 2003 in Mishawaka, while responding to a ``shots fired'' call. He was hit by the assailant's gunfire and died at the scene. As a 14-year veteran of the Mishawaka Police Department, Tom was a respected police officer who protected community members and fought for the values we all hold close to our hearts.

Tom Roberts was the second officer killed that night while dutifully serving his city. Today, I join Tom's family, friends, and the entire Michiana community in mourning Tom's death. While our pride in Tom shall certainly live on, so, too, will our sorrow.

After working for 10 years at Ladig, Inc., Tom attended the Plainfield Police Academy and joined the Mishawaka Police Department in 1989. On or off the job, he treated everyone he met with respect and dignity. As a caring and concerned man, Tom always reached out to help others in any way he could. His respected career is a testament to his commitment to hard work and willingness to help others.

Tom graduated from Mishawaka High School where he was a member of the football team. Tom had a lifelong love of football and was an avid Notre Dame football fan. He especially enjoyed going to the games with his family and friends and collecting sports memorabilia.

Tom leaves behind his loving fiancee, Debbie McGinnis; his daughters, Lindsay, Holly, and Ashley; his son, Larry Peak; his mother, Francelia; brothers, Larry and Gary; and his sisters, Ann Marie, Celia Dillon, Peggy Boyd, and Lisa. His father, John E. Roberts, and his brother, John, preceded Tom in death.

While Tom's life on Earth has been cut short, his bravery and strength of character will live on. May his life serve as a clear reminder of the risks taken each day by law enforcement officers across the Nation who keep our cities and towns safe.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Corporal Thomas Roberts in the official record of the United States Senate for his dedication to public service, as well as his profound commitment to serve and protect. When I think about the daily sacrifices and risks that our law enforcement officers take each day, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Tom'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 bless the United States of America.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and a deep sense of gratitude to honor one of Indiana's finest, Richard Mark Clapp, the New Richmond Town Marshal who lost his life in the line of duty on December 5, 2003.

Mark Clapp and his son, Aaron, were responding to a domestic dispute in New Richmond. Aaron, a county jail officer, waited in the patrol car as his father accompanied the suspect into the home. Once inside the home, Mark Clapp became engaged in a struggle with the suspect and suffered a fatal heart attack. He was 45 years old.

As Town Marshal, Mark Clapp devoted his life to selfless service for his community. He served as the New Richmond Town Marshal for 22 years. His desire to help people and defend what is right and just in our society was apparent to everyone in his passion for serving as Town Marshal. Mark never missed an opportunity to learn more about law enforcement and how to better protect his community.

Born on April 7, 1958, in Greencastle, Mark Clapp graduated from Mt. Comfort High School and attended Vincennes University. On November 18, 1978, he married Debbie Zentko. Mark and Debbie enjoyed 25 years of marriage and were the proud parents of their only child. Mark is survived by his mother Patricia; his father, Joseph; his wife, Debbie; his son, Aaron; and his two brothers.

Mark Clapp was a dedicated family man and public servant. He touched many lives over the course of his career and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and community leader.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Richard Mark Clapp in the official record of the United States Senate for his service to the State of Indiana and the community of New Richmond. His commitment to protecting and serving the public will not soon be forgotten. As Mark is laid to rest, let us never forget the courage and sacrifice he laid down on December 5, 2003.

When I think about the daily sacrifices and risks that our law enforcement officers take each day, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope families like Mark'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 bless the United States of America.

Mr. President, I rise today with great sadness and tremendous gratitude to honor the life of a brave law enforcement officer from Mishawaka. Patrolman Bryan Verkler was only 27 years old when his life was taken from him in an instant. He died during the predawn hours of December 13, 2003, in Mishawaka, while responding to a ``shots fired'' call. After entering a home where an assailant was held up, Bryan was hit by the assailant's gunfire. He fought for his life, but the surgeon's efforts were to no avail. Bryan was a respected police officer who protected Hoosiers and served those in need. He fought for the values that we all hold close to our hearts.

Bryan Verkler was the second officer killed that December morning while dutifully serving his city. Today, I join Bryan's family, friends, and the entire Michiana community in mourning his death. While our memories of Bryan shall certainly live on, so, too, will our sorrow.

Before joining the Mishawaka Police Department, Bryan served on the St. Joseph County Police Department as a Special Deputy. He graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 1999. Recognized as a ``gentle giant,'' he had a generous heart without a mean bone in his body. Bryan loved to laugh and joke and was described as a laid-back man who was conscientious and caring. Yet as a police officer, he was bold and not afraid to fulfill the duties required by his job.

Bryan graduated from John Glenn High School where he was a shot-put and discus athlete. After high school he attended Purdue University and Vincennes University, from which he graduated in 1996. While attending Vincennes, Bryan earned recognition as an All-American athlete while competing in track and field.

Bryan leaves behind his wife of 7 months, Juli; his father, Randy, who is a Walkerton Police Officer; his mother Carolyn; and his brother Brett, who is also a Walkerton Police Officer.

While Bryan's life on Earth has been cut short, his bravery and strength of character shall live on as a powerful and consoling force. May Bryan's life also serve as a clear reminder of the

risks taken every day by law enforcement officers across the Nation who keep our cities and towns safe.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Bryan S. Verkler in the official record of the United States Senate for his dedication to public service and for his profound commitment to serve and protect. When I think about the daily sacrifices and risks that our law enforcement officers take each day, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope 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 bless the United States of America.

Mr. President, today I rise to pay tribute to the life of a distinguished Hoosier public servant, Captain James E. Baugh of Greencastle, who lost his life in the line of duty on January 2, 2004.

Living a life of selfless public service, Captain Baugh held positions in both emergency medical services and law enforcement throughout his distinguished career. A veteran who served our country in Vietnam in the U.S. Air Force from 1963 to 1966, Captain Baugh went on to serve on the Greencastle Police Department before becoming a deputy with the Putnam County Sheriff's Department in 1971. He had previously served as Chief Deputy before becoming Putman County Sheriff in 1975. Captain Baugh held the honor of being the longest serving deputy, devoting 32 years of service to the department.

Captain Baugh's dedication to law enforcement and commitment to Putnam County was exemplified by his lifelong efforts to improve his marksmanship and educate fellow officers through his work at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. He was also an avid photographer, sportsman, gunsmith, and youth leader.

Captain James Baugh was a dedicated member of the Greencastle Christian Church. He is survived by his wife, Lauralee Perry Baugh; sons, Jason E. and Jerrod E. Baugh; daughter-in-law, Tara Baugh; sisters Eileen Bryant, Helen Hansel Poynter, Barbara Shepard and Mildred Buttram; and a granddaughter, Gayle Evelyn Baugh.

The citizens of Putnam County and the State of Indiana were well- served by Captain Baugh's life of noble service. It is my sad duty to enter his name into the official record of the United States Senate for his dedication to public service, as well as his profound commitment to protecting community members.

When I think about the daily sacrifices and risks that our law enforcement officers take each day, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope families like Captain Baugh'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 bless the United States of America.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life of my fellow Hoosier, State Senator Charles ``Bud'' Meeks, who passed away on March 22. Senator Meeks dedicated his life to serving his country and our home State of Indiana, setting an example of personal conviction and political vigor throughout his 6 years as State senator.

Bud Meeks grew up in Fort Wayne, IN. He graduated from Central High School in 1954 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After serving 4 years in the Navy, Senator Meeks returned home to Fort Wayne where he began his career in public service as a deputy at the Allen County jail. Meeks retired from the Sheriff's Department after 28 years of dedicated service, including two terms as Allen County Sheriff. He then moved to Washington, DC, where he was the executive director of the National Sheriff's Association for 8 years. Upon his final return to Indiana, Meeks ran a successful campaign, demonstrating a work ethic on the campaign trail that is remembered by Hoosiers still today. In 1998, Senator Meeks was elected to the Indiana State Senate to represent Indiana's 14th Senate District.

While serving as Senator, Meeks most recently played a crucial role in championing the current proposal to consolidate Allen County government. But among his colleagues, Meeks was known above all else for his love of children. While in the Senate, Meeks would frequently devote a significant amount of time to young students, answering questions and discussing government. His focus on Indiana's youth is a testament to Meeks' kindness of heart and clear understanding of the importance of prioritizing the children who will one day be running our great Nation.

In everything he did, Senator Meeks brought with him an inspiring energy and passion, setting a positive example for his friends, colleagues, and constituents to follow. He was always ready to work diligently for the causes he cared for so deeply, and it was his steadfast belief in community involvement that earned him the unwavering admiration of Hoosiers across Indiana.

Meeks was a committed father and public servant. The sense of loss to all those who knew Senator Meeks is tremendous. He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; son, Brian, brothers Bob and Fred; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Sue and another son, David.

It is my honor to enter the name of Senator Charles ``Bud'' Meeks into the Congressional Record.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Carmel, IN. Specialist Christopher Hudson, 21 years old, died in Abu Ghraib, just west of Baghdad, on March 21, 2004, during an attack when the Humvee he was riding in was struck by an improvised explosive device.

After joining the Army in November of 2002, Chris was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division based in Fort Hood, TX. Chris served as a gunner during his deployment, which began when his unit joined the efforts in Iraq one year ago. With his entire life before him, Chris chose to risk everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, In a land halfway around the world.

Chris was the twenty-fifth Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This brave young soldier leaves behind his father; his mother, Sally; his wife, Michelle; his 1-year- old son, Gavon; and 3-year-old daughter, Veronika. May Chris' children grow up knowing that their father gave his life so that young Iraqis will some day know the freedom they enjoy.

Today, I join Chris' family, his friends, and the entire Carmel community in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over his death, 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 Chris, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

When looking back on the life of her late husband, Chris' wife Michelle told the Indianapolis Star that he ``was proud to defend his country . . . His family loves him, misses him and is very proud of him.'' Today and always, Chris will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Chris' 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 Chris' actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Christopher E. Hudson 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 Chris' 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 Gold bless America.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor the heroic service of Pvt Dwayne Turner, 23, a combat medic in the United States Army, from Indianapolis, IN. Private Turner is a member of the U.S. Army's 3rd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, which came under grenade and small arms attack in Baghdad, Iraq on April 13, 2003.

According to U.S. Army Sgt Neil Mulvaney, the convoy was under a heavy amount of fire from Iraqi resistance forces. During the attack, a grenade struck the Humvee in which Private Turner was riding, seriously injuring both his legs with shards of shrapnel. Ignoring his injuries, Private Turner bravely fulfilled his duty as a combat medic, selflessly putting the lives and comfort of others before his own. While treating 18 other soldiers' injuries, Private Turner was shot in the arm and leg before Sergeant Mulvaney had to physically restrain him to administer medical treatment for Private Turner's increasingly severe injuries.

When asked by the Associated Press to reflect upon the events of the attack, Private Turner humbly said, ``I don't consider myself a hero at all. I just figured everybody was going to go home and nobody was going to die on my watch.'' However, BG Frank Hemlock's description of Private Turner's actions seems much more fitting: ``He is a bona fide hero. He saved two lives without question and patched up 16 other lives.''

In honor of the lives he saved through his unhesitating valor, Private Turner has been awarded the Silver Star, an award earned by nothing less than true sacrifice. May this award stand as a reminder to Private Turner that neither his comrades nor their grateful loved ones will soon forget his heroic actions.

As I reflect on Private Turner's service, I am reminded of a quote by Douglas MacArthur: ``The soldier, above all other people prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.'' The United States will be eternally grateful for the courage and bravery Private Turner exhibited on the field of battle.

I know that all Hoosiers share my deep sense of pride in Private Turner and all of the men and women of our Armed Forces from Indiana who safeguard our country's freedom. My thoughts and prayers are with him as he continues his recovery and begins to make his new goal to become a civilian physician a reality.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Edinburgh, IN. CWO2 Brian D. Hazelgrove, 29 years old, died outside of Mosul, Iraq, on January 23, 2004, after his Kiowa Warrior helicopter crashed while returning from a combat mission. Brian joined the Army with his entire life before him. He chose to risk everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Brian was the 24th Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brian leaves behind his father, Ron; his wife, Kimmi; his half brother, Brad; and his children, Taylor, Zachary, Brandon, and Katelyn. May Brian's children grow up knowing that their father gave his life so that young Iraqis will some day know the freedom they enjoy.

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

Brian graduated from Edinburgh High School in 1994, where he played on the basketball team. Friends and family members remember Brian for the love he shared with his entire family, his energetic personality and his unfailing sense of humor. His half brother Brad spoke for all who were blessed to have known Brian when describing him to the Indianapolis Star as ``just a joy . . . the guy was amazing.''

After joining the Army in 1994, Brian began his military career in intelligence. He later became a helicopter pilot, serving with the 3rd Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry Regiment from the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, NY. Prior to Brian's service in Operation Iraqi Freedom, he also served two tours of duty in South Korea. He was deployed to the Middle East in November.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Brian'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 Brian's actions will live on far long than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Brian D. Hazelgrove 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 Brian'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 bless us all.

Madam President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave young man from Brookston, IN. Specialist Luke Frist, 20 years old, died at the Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston, TX, on January 5, 2004, following an attack, 3 days prior in Baghdad, Iraq, when the fuel truck he was driving struck an improvised explosive device.

After joining the Army Reserves, Luke was assigned to the 209th Quartermaster Company in Lafayette, IN. Luke served on a fuel tanker as a petroleum specialist during his deployment, which began in May 2003.

Luke was the twenty-third Hoosier soldier to be killed while serving his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This brave young soldier leaves behind his father, Dennis, his mother, Pattie, and two sisters. When Luke joined the Army Reserves, he was following in the military footsteps of his parental grandfather, who served in World War II. With his entire life before him, Luke chose to risk everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Today, I join Luke's family, his friends, and the entire Brookston community in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over his death, 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 Luke, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief.

Luke's family recalls his being in good spirits during his last phone call home. According to his sister Johanna, Luke ``wanted to fight for his country and be the best of the best . . . . He died doing what he loved.'' Today, Luke's family remembers him as a true American hero, and we honor the sacrifice he made while serving his country.

Luke graduated from Tri-County High School in 2001. He was an active member of the student body, playing the trombone and tuba in the band, playing on the football team, and throwing shot put as a member of the track team. Friends and family members alike remember Luke for his energetic personality, his passion for being outdoors, and his dedication to making his dreams become a reality. When Luke was activated, he was working full time while attending classes at Ivy Tech State College in Lafayette, with plans to transfer to Purdue University to pursue a career in landscape design.

As I search for words to do justice in honoring Luke'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 Luke's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Luke P. Frist in the official Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to his 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 Luke'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 bless us all.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I rise today to tell you about the extraordinary young Hoosiers I recently had the privilege to meet. Last month, I hosted my first 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 for cancer research and to feed the hungry. Several of the young men and women started service clubs 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 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 go into a successful service project: inspiration, organization, dedication, evaluation and reflection. Following the speeches, the students broke up into different groups

and participated in service projects throughout Indianapolis. Some students distributed coats to children of needy families, while others planted trees in the rain, cleaned up a park and beautified a neighborhood. Through their work together, the leaders were able to experience the dramatic results of 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?''Sec. ' Each one of the young men and women have already asked themselves ``why not?'' and have worked to make positive changes in their communities. These students 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: Ruchika Agrawal, Brooke Allen, Santiago Alvarez, Ricky Anderson, Tracy Anderson, Mary Anderson-Clark, Todd William Ault, Audrey Ballinger, Katherine Ban Wyk, Brenda Banks, Meghan Beeman, Nicole Blauvelt, Stephanie Bobcek, Jared Michael Bond, Thomas Borders, Jason Born, Samantha Brown, Brittany Brumfield, Michael Brunsman, Jordan Bruse, Jeremy Burton, Danielle Cave, Brett Claxton, Erin Clifford, Heather Coffman, Sarah Copley, Donald Davenport, Adrienne Davis, Matthew J. Day, Emily DeCamp, Todd Dell'Aquila, Hallie Denstorff, Rachel Dickerson, Carrie L. Doherty, Megan Drudy, Bryan T. Engh, Kaylee Fagg, Patrick Fenning, Whitney Mariah Fish, Matthew Fosler, Josh Gilbert, Stephanie Giles, Laura Glasebrook, Emily Gordon, Ronald Derries Gordon, Nathan Daniel Graber, Philip Graves, Stephanie Grider, Leigh Gusky, Mathew Guiterrez, Angela Hagerman, Lauren Kathleen Hanger, Thomas Haynes, Keenan Hecht, Jason Heck, Rebecca Jean Helms, Breanna Herschelman, Marc Hertz, Lindsay Holliman, Rachel Howser, Kellen Hubert, Ana Maria Huffman, Jenny Jackaway, Jayne Jeffries, Adam Jochim, Kyle Keaffaber, James William Kepner, Sarah Kittle, Hannah Laughlin, Kevin Lavery, Claire Lawless, Natalie Leach, Devon Lee, Leah Danielle Lee, Jonathan Lough, Bethany Lynch, Amy Maple, Stephanie Marshall, Katelyn McCool, Nathan Alan McGuire, Jeanna McKinzie, Latisha McMichel, Megan Meyers, Jala Miller, Jessica Muehr, Suzanne Natz, Chenai Saaku Netty, Laura Nicholson, Amanda Niehaus, Colin Grant Northeatt, Kathleen M. O'Brien, Amanda Oldham, Sophia Percival, Cara Perry, Tyler Lee Phelps, Helen Pirrie, Emily Poe, Alex Pollock, Miranda Polston, Andrea Poppe, Frank Pottorff, Dustin William Potts, Joseph Andrew Powell, Kristin Pryor, LaTrea Reed, Alex Richardson, Bryan Rogers, Michael Joseph Root, Helanie Rosinko, Molli K. Schaeffer, Travis Schamber, Jennifer Schlatter, Jennifer Schoenle, Ryan Schroer, Jessica Schulert, James Scott, Ryne R. Shadday, Derek Shaul, Chad Sinclair, Anita Sivam, Christian Michael Smeltzer, Paul A. Smith, Ellen Eileen Sojka, Kala Spangle, Katie L. Strohm, Ashlie Sullivan, Brett Taylor, Laura Thurston, Kavya S. Vaidyanathan, Leigh A. Vanarsdall, Brittany Nicole Waddle, Melissa Wadley, Laura Wagner, Kathleen Waldrew, Jacquie Walker, Caitlin Walsh, Frank Walsh, Antonia Wang, Krista Warner, Andrew Wassel, Alison West, J.D. Willett, David Wood, Lili Xu, and Erin Youst.