Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Marine Cpl Donte Jamal Whitworth from Noblesville, IN. Donte was 21 years old when he lost his life on February 28, 2009, from injuries sustained from a vehicular accident near Al Taquddum Air Base in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was a member of Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, Marine Corps Air Station of Yuma, AZ.

Donte, a 2005 graduate of Noblesville High School, joined the Marines immediately after graduation, eager to serve his country. While deployed, he commanded supply convoys transporting goods between U.S. military bases in Iraq. Donte was a dedicated basketball fan who always had a smile on his face. Born into a family of marines, he was proud to embrace the tradition and become a member of our country's Armed Forces. Scheduled to return home in March, Donte planned on reenlisting after his tour was complete.

Today, I join Donte's family and friends in mourning his death. Donte will forever be remembered as a loving son, grandson, and friend to many. He is survived by his mother, Carla Plowden; father, Daniel Whitworth; step-father, Kerry McGee; grandparents, Robert and Catherine Williams; and a host of other relatives, friends, and fellow marines.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Donte set as a dedicated soldier. Today and always, Donte will be remembered by family, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice to this valiant fallen soldier, I recall President Abraham Lincoln's words as he addressed the families of soldiers who died at 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 we can take some measure of solace in knowing that Donte's heroism and memory will outlive the record of the words here spoken.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Donte Jamal Whitworth 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. I pray that Donte's family 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 Donte.

Sergeant Bradley Marshall

Mr. President, I wish to honor Stan Jones, a man who has dedicated his professional life to improving the quality of education for countless students across Indiana.

Stan is Indiana's longtime commissioner of higher education and will unfortunately retire from our State's highest education post this month. Stan has led the Commission for Higher Education since 1995 and during his remarkable tenure was charged with planning and coordinating Indiana's State-supported postsecondary education system and giving students the ability to secure their personal futures.

Stan's commitment to education began in 1974, when, at the age of 24, he was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives. As a member of both the House Education and State Budget Committees, he developed an expertise in higher education and higher education finance that would be enormously beneficial in the years ahead.

Between 1990 and 1995, Stan was one of my closest advisers when I had the privilege of serving as Indiana's Governor. He deserves credit as a primary architect of several landmark education-policy initiatives, including the 21st Century Scholars Program. This program promises at- risk middle school students full tuition scholarships to Indiana colleges and universities in return for being drug, alcohol and crime free and maintaining good grades. I am proud to say that this groundbreaking program was the first of its kind in the Nation to successfully graduate students and has increased the number of low- income students completing postsecondary education.

In his current role, Stan has led several initiatives to increase adult participation in higher education, including the development of the Community College of Indiana. He has also worked relentlessly to increase the number of students pursuing higher learning and

to improve their preparation through a focus on raising Indiana's K-12 academic standards. More recently, Stan has led a comprehensive campaign to significantly increase college graduation rates in Indiana.

On a personal note, I have known Stan Jones for nearly 25 years. I am personally grateful to have had the benefit of Stan's wisdom for all these years.

Throughout his public career, Stan has been a tireless advocate for moving educational policy issues to the forefront of Indiana's political agenda. On behalf of all Hoosiers, we thank Stan for a job well done, for his passion and commitment to education, and above all, for his service to the people of Indiana.

Madam President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of CPL Zachary Ray Nordmeyer from Indianapolis, IN. Zachary was 21 years old when he lost his life on February 23, 2009, from injuries sustained when he and others came under attack from small-arms fire in Balad, Iraq. He was a member of the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division of Fort Wainwright, AK.

Zachary, a graduate of the JROTC program at Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis, joined the Army in July 2007 and was sent to Iraq in September for a 12-month tour. He was an avid sports fan, playing football and baseball at Ben Davis and never missing an opportunity to watch his favorite NASCAR driver, Jeff Gordon, in action. He was a member of Lakeview Church and Harmony Baptist Church, and also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family and friends.

Today, I join Zachary's family and friends in mourning his death. Zachary will forever be remembered as a loving brother, son, grandson, and friend to many. Zachary is survived by his fiancee, Chrissy Purdy; father, Michael Nordmeyer; step-parents, Kevin and Cindy Bereman; brothers, Josh and David Nordmeyer; step-sisters, Rachel Klop, Kendra Gregg, and Karen Piehl; step-brother, Kristopher Bereman; grandparents, Nancy and Bill Harman, Tim and Susan Fair; grandfather, Paul Nordmeyer; grandmother, Marilyn Fair; great-grandparents, Herman and Evona Fair; aunts and uncles, Tom and Mindy Nordmeyer, Brian and Stephanie Nordmeyer, Brad and Kim Nordmeyer; uncles, Kevin and Brandon Fair and Steven Harman; aunt, Stephanie Harman; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other friends and relatives. Zachary was preceded in death by his mother, Kimberly Bereman; and great-grandparents, Lester and Elenor Baker, George and Eve Nordmeyer, and Paul and Dorothy Fisher.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Zachary set as a soldier. Today and always, Zachary will be remembered by family, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice to this valiant fallen soldier, I recall President Abraham Lincoln's words as he addressed the families of soldiers who died at 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 we can take some measure of solace in knowing that Zachary's heroism and memory will outlive the record of the words here spoken.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Zachary Nordmeyer 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. I pray that Zachary's family 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 Zachary.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SGT Ezra Dawson from Las Vegas, NV. Ezra was thirty-one years old when he lost his life on January 17, 2009, from injuries sustained from a helicopter crash in Konar Province, Afghanistan.

Today, I join Ezra's family and friends in mourning his death. Ezra will forever be remembered as a loving brother, son, and friend to many. Ezra is survived by his devoted wife Starlia Dorsey-Dawson of Las Vegas, NV; his stepdaughter Diamond Dorsey, also of Las Vegas, NV; his mother Eva Davenport, of Indianapolis, IN; his sister Atarah Wright, of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of other friends and relatives.

Ezra joined the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, of Fort Hood, TX, in January 2008. He served as a junior scout and sniper team member, and as a leader for a reconnaissance team in the Korengal Valley.

For his valiant service, Ezra was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, NATO Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Combat Infantry Badge.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Ezra set as both a soldier and a father. Today and always, he will be remembered by family and friends as a true American hero, and we cherish the legacy of his service and his life.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Ezra Dawson 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. I pray that Ezra's family 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 Ezra.

Mr. President, yesterday I joined with Senator Graham in introducing the Money Laundering Control Enhancement Act of 2009. This bill would clarify congressional intent and ensure that federal prosecutors are able to more effectively fight money laundering and terrorism financing.

In particular, this bill would overturn the Supreme Court's narrow and confusing decision in United States v. Santos and clarify that, as used in the Money Laundering Control Act, the term ``proceeds'' refers to the total receipts--not simply the profits--of an illegal activity. To interpret this statute differently, as the Santos decision suggests we should, would create needless problems of proof and unfairly burden prosecutors. In a world where criminals and terrorists are constantly developing new and more sophisticated ways to hide and launder dirty money, it does not make sense to require prosecutors to prove that these dangerous criminals generated a profit from their illegal activities. Alternatively, interpreting the term ``proceeds'' in a way that encompasses all of the funds received by these individuals would ensure that federal law is consistent with the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, the Model Money Laundering Act, and money laundering statutes in the fourteen states that use and define the word ``proceeds.''

At a time when both our economic and national security are being threatened, it would be a grave mistake to underestimate the threat posed by money laundering. The most recent National Money Laundering Strategy, which was developed jointly by the Departments of Treasury, Justice, and Homeland Security, states that ``Money Laundering, in its own right, is a serious threat to our national and economic security. Integrating illicit proceeds into the financial system, enables organized crime, fuels corruption, and erodes confidence in the rule of law.'' In the face of such a threat, we must provide our hard-working law enforcement officials with the tools they need to bring these criminals to justice.

I have great respect for our Supreme Court. But sometimes, as in the case

before us, they misinterpret congressional intent. In those situations, particularly when important issues like money laundering are involved, it is incumbent upon Congress to take corrective action. I hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting this legislation.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of CPL Joseph M. Hernandez from Hammond, IN. Joseph was 24 years old when he lost his life on January 9, 2009, from injuries sustained from a roadside bomb attack in Jaldak, Afghanistan. He was a member of the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment of Hohenfels, Germany.

Today, I join Joseph's family and friends in mourning his death. Joseph will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, son, and friend to many. Joseph is survived by his wife, Alison; his sons, Jacob and Noah; his brothers, Jesse and Jason; his parents, Elva and Jessie; and a host of other friends and relatives.

Joseph joined the Army in 2005 and had been stationed in Afghanistan for 1 month. Prior to entering the service, Joseph graduated from Mount Carmel High School in Chicago, attended the College of the Holy Cross and had entered the mechanical engineering and biology programs at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. Joseph was a man of great faith and an active member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church of Hammond, where he served as an altar boy and was a member of the choir. Joseph had many passions in life: he was a volunteer at the local animal humane society, and his interests ranged from boxing to model airplanes and vintage cars. Above all, Joseph's greatest passion was his family, who he hoped to take to a Chicago Cubs game at the end of his deployment.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Joseph set as both a soldier and a father. Today and always, he will be remembered by family, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the legacy of his service and his life.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Joseph M. Hernandez in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. I pray that Joseph's family 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 Joseph.

Mr. President, I rise today to commend Majority Leader Reid and Republican Leader McConnell for introducing S. Res. 10, an important piece of legislation which reaffirms unwavering support of the United Statest for Israel and Israel's right to defend itself and protect its citizens. Hamas' unwillingness to renounce violence and recognize Israel's right to exist is the central impediment to achieving a lasting peace between the Israelis and Palestinians. I stand strongly with the people of Israel in their efforts to cope with the terrorist threat from Hamas. No nation can be asked to endlessly turn the other cheek when its people are subject to indiscriminate, unprovoked, and lethal missile strikes. Like all people, the citizens of Israel have the right to live safely within secure borders.

While the responsibility for the current violence rests with Hamas, both sides must take every possible step to avoid harming innocent civilians. Furthermore, both sides must work towards a durable and sustainable ceasefire that prevents Hamas from rearming and improves the daily living conditions of the people in Gaza.

The current bloodshed in Gaza is also a grave reminder of Iran's role in arming, training, and assisting extremist groups like Hamas. The Iranian regime is the world's most active state sponsor of terrorism. The current violence further underscores the importance of using aggressive sanctions to deter the Iranian regime from taking future actions that destabilize the region and threaten our democratic allies.

We have learned as a nation that terrorism and the advocacy of extremism are not distant problems but those which we must confront vigilantly. Terrorism has no geographic boundaries. We must continue our efforts to confront Islamic extremism and to eliminate terrorists' ability to strike against the United States and our allies. Therefore, I wholeheartedly support S. Res. 10, which underscores our Nation's commitment to help provide for Israel's security and to encourage a lasting and secure peace in the Middle East.

Mr. President, I rise today to seek clarification of an important provision that was included in the tax extenders package that the Senate approved on September 23.

As my good friend knows, the Senate amendment to H.R. 6049 establishes in section 205 a new tax credit for plug-in electric drive vehicles. The credit is for passenger vehicles and light trucks and varies in amount depending on the vehicle's weight and battery capacity. Your leadership has been critical to securing this credit, which I strongly support because it will help reduce America's dependence on foreign oil by giving people incentives to build and purchase advanced, fuel-efficient vehicles.

Indiana has consistently been a key contributor to innovation in vehicle manufacturing. We are proud that our auto manufacturers and suppliers are focused on building the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles and components. This plug-in electric drive motor vehicle tax credit is essential to help consumers overcome any hesitation to purchase these vehicles and to provide investors with confidence that the Government is committed to the electrification of our Nation's transportation sector.

Section 205 of the Senate-passed amendment to H.R. 6049 describes the vehicles that would qualify for the tax credit. Eligible vehicles include, in part, motor vehicles with at least a 4 kilowatt hour battery used for propulsion, an offboard energy source to recharge the battery, and in the case of passenger vehicles or light trucks of no more than 8,500 pounds, a certificate of conformity under the Clean Air Act.

The bill language does not expressly state whether a van would qualify, but many commercial and government fleets use vans.

The relevant Environmental Protection Agency regulations referred to by the bill, such as 40 C.F.R. 86.082-2, define a van as a ``light-duty truck.'' It would appear that the committee intends that a plug-in electric drive van, meeting the appropriate weight and emission standards, would qualify for the new tax credit for plug-in electric drive motor vehicles. Mr. Chairman, is this analysis of the committee's intent correct?

Mr. President, today I honor a great Hoosier, Doctor James Pierpont Comer. Today we recognize the many accomplishments of Dr. Comer, a distinguished professor, innovator, author, and scholar.

Dr. Comer, in his role as an educator and mentor, embodies the spirit of hard work and service that Hoosiers value. The Maurice Falk Professor of Child Psychiatry at the Yale University School of Medicine's Child Study Center, Dr. Comer has been a member of the Yale medical faculty since 1968. As founder of the Comer School Development Program at Yale, he has advanced a teamwork approach to ensuring positive child development and academic success. The ``Comer Model'' has been implemented at over 500 schools nationwide and has promoted the constructive growth of countless American youth.

A native of East Chicago, IN, Dr. Comer received his bachelor's degree from Indiana University, his M.D. from Howard University, and a master's in public health from the University of Michigan. He has received no less than 46 honorary degrees as well as numerous other accolades, including the John P. McGovern Behavioral Science Award from the Smithsonian, the John Hope Franklin Award, the Heinz Award in the Human Condition, and the Healthtrac Foundation Prize. An unparalleled scholar, Dr. Comer has authored nine books and hundreds of articles relating to child development, childhood education, and race relations.

As we honor Dr. Comer today, the words of Henry Brooks Adams come to mind: ``A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.'' Dr. Comer has helped countless young people develop the building blocks necessary to become the leaders of their generation, and the students whose lives he has touched over the years will undoubtedly help shape our society through the 21st century.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SPC Shavonte Dontrell Fields from Fort Wayne, IN. Shavonte was 22 years old when he lost his life on September 7, 2008, from injuries sustained when his vehicle, also carrying his 2-year-old son Ladaryion Shavonte Fields, overturned in Indianapolis shortly after he returned from active duty in Iraq.

Today, I join Shavonte and Ladaryion's family and friends in mourning their deaths. Shavonte, who was known to many as Dontrell, will forever be remembered as a loving father, son, brother, and friend to many. Shavonte is survived by his parents Anita M. Davis Fields and Robert Lee Fields, Jr.; his stepfather Detrick Eley; his siblings Robert Lee Fields, III, Detrick Tubbs and Demetria Eley; his grandparents, John and Margurite Davis, Frank and Betty Cochran, Robert and Mary Fields and Deborah Andrew; and his great-grandparents Tom and Lena Lofton. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Carlotta Joann Cochran.

Shavonte served a 14-month deployment in Iraq as a petroleum specialist with the Army National Guard. Those who knew him best recall a devout man who loved making people smile. Shavonte's family said he had an ``energetic personality and an infectious sense of humor that spread to all those in his vicinity.'' He was a member of the Progressive Baptist Church of Fort Wayne. At the time of the accident, Shavonte was moving back into civilian life, set to start a new job as a customer service representative with AT&T the next day.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Shavonte set as both a soldier and a father. Today and always, he will be remembered by family, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the legacy of his service and his life.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Shavonte Dontrell Fields in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. I pray that Shavonte's family 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 Shavonte.

Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the 10 outstanding Hoosier athletes who represented the State of Indiana and all of the United States in the Games of the XXIX Olympiad in Beijing, China.

Lloy Ball, a volleyball player from Fort Wayne; David Boudia, a diver from Noblesville; Amber Campbell, a track and field athlete from Indianapolis; Lauren Cheney, a soccer player from Indianapolis; LeRoy Dixon, a track and field athlete from South Bend; Mary Beth Dunnichay, a diver from Elwood; Thomas Finchum, a diver from Indianapolis; David Neville, a track and field athlete from Merrillville; Samantha Peszek, a gymnast from Indianapolis; and Bridget Sloan, a gymnast from Pittsboro, all represented the Hoosier State as members of Team USA.

This Olympiad is the first for many of the Hoosier athletes; others have donned the colors of Team USA before. This year, Lloy Ball, a member of the

U.S. men's volleyball team, became the first male athlete from the United States to compete in four Olympic Games. Lloy's incredible feat will forever be part of Indiana and Olympic sports history, and I know our entire State is immensely proud to count him among our own.

These Hoosiers have shown superior abilities, extraordinary work ethics, and unflappable determination in their quests to become Olympic athletes. The road to the pinnacle of athletic success has required thousands of hours of demanding training over years of preparation, yet these athletes show us that commitment to excellence truly has its rewards. For many of our Hoosier athletes, the spoils of their hard work and dedication came in the form of an Olympic medal. Lloy Ball and the men's volleyball team brought home a gold medal, as did Lauren Cheney and the women's soccer team. David Neville won the bronze medal in the 400 meter final, and Samantha Peszek and Bridget Sloan were awarded the silver medal with their teammates on the women's gymnastics team.

These 10 athletes traveled halfway around the globe to compete against the worlds' finest, and brought with them the unwavering support of their fellow Hoosiers. The people of Indiana are fortunate to have had such an exceptional group representing us at the Olympic Games.

Team USA represents the best America has to offer, and these Hoosiers have made our State and our country proud.

Mr. President, I rise today in support of section 254 of the fiscal year 2009 National Defense Authorization Act. I thank Chairman Levin and Senator Jack Reed for working with me on this piece of legislation which is based on recommendations of the National Academy of Sciences and the Department of Defense. Critical technologies that help protect our national security are being outsourced to the global economy and to nations that may not have our best interests at heart. One such technology is printed circuit boards, a type of electronics technology that is integrated into every weapons system we deploy, from the F-22 to UAVs to the MRAP. For years we relied on industry to maintain the technological advantage in this critical area, but we now must take more action to ensure that the United States maintains and protects this capability to better ensure our national security.

Due to economic pressures, industry has increasingly outsourced the manufacture of printed circuit boards, and we are in danger of losing the industrial base capable of building and maintaining these components, especially those with critical security technologies required for our military. Without this critical technology, many components in numerous defense systems would cease to function. The Department of Defense spends roughly $500 million annually on procuring these components, and it is imperative that we safeguard their future production. We cannot allow continued outsourcing to move production to China and other nations. We must protect our access to critical and sensitive pieces of hardware that are the basis of our military technological advantage.

Previous Department of Defense efforts to address these issues have been incomplete, underfunded, and disjointed. It is critical that we establish an executive agent to monitor and protect issues related to the U.S. printed circuit board industry. Safeguarding the technology and manufacturing capabilities of printed circuit boards will protect our national interests today and in the future. Not only will this executive agent be instrumental in maintaining existing legacy systems but will also ensure the military's advancement of emerging technologies are used in the next generation of military hardware. Failure to establish an executive agent and take aggressive action would result in the eventual loss of a critical technology and the diminishing capacity of our military's ability to safeguard our national security. Therefore, I urge support of section 254 and of the National Defense Authorization Act.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SGT Brian K. Miller from Pendleton, IN. Brian was 37 years old when he lost his life on August 2, 2008, in Abd Allah, Iraq, from injuries sustained when his vehicle overturned. He was a member of D Company, 1st Battalion, 293rd Infantry Division, 76th Infantry Brigade, Army National Guard of Huntington, IN.

Today, I join Brian's family and friends in mourning his death. Brian will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother, friend, and soldier. He is survived by his wife, Becky Miller; his children, Nikki and Austin Miller; his mother, Donna Cook; his sister, Tammy Osalear; and his brother, Kevin Miller. Brian was preceded in death by his father, Glen Miller; and his brother, Kenny Miller.

A lifelong Hoosier, Brian was born in Indianapolis, IN, and graduated from Pendleton Heights High School in 1990. Driven to public service, he joined the Indiana Army National Guard as a metal worker in 1989, while still in high school. Brian was assigned to Company D (HM), 738th Maintenance Battalion in Indianapolis and later moved to 1413th Engineer Detachment in Edinburgh, Indiana, where he was a vehicle mechanic and a welder. He later served time with Company C (HM), 38th Main Support Battalion as a welder and vehicle mechanic.

For 19 years, Brian devoted himself to national service through the Indiana National Guard. He assisted in Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts in the Mississippi Valley and in security for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. In March, Brian was deployed to Iraq, serving as a truck commander for more than 20 combat logistics patrols and working full- time as a technician with the Indiana Army National Guard. His comrades remember Brian as a respected leader who brought both professionalism and humor to his service, and as a man who loved his family. For his exceptional service and sacrifice, Brian was awarded the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with 5 Oak Leaf clusters, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Brian set. Today and always, Brian will be remembered by family, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice to this valiant fallen soldier, I recall President Abraham Lincoln's words as he addressed the families of soldiers who died at 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 we can take some measure of solace in knowing that Brian's heroism and memory will outlive the record of the words here spoken.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Brian K. Miller in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this struggle in which we are engaged, and the immeasurable pain that comes with so great a loss, I pray that Brian's family 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 Brian.

Sergeant Gary M. Henry

Mr. President, I also rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SGT Gary M. Henry from Indianapolis, IN. Gary was 34 years old when he lost his life on August 4, 2008, in Baghdad, Iraq, from injuries sustained from a roadside bomb that hit his vehicle. He was a member of the 38th Military Police Company, 38th Infantry Division, Army National Guard in Danville, IN.

Today, I join Gary's family and friends in mourning his death. Gary will forever be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, son, brother, friend, and soldier. He is survived by his wife, Regina Lynn; his children, Shelby Brooke, Gavin Michael, and Ashtyn Taylor; his father, Gary Henry; his mother and step-father, Marajo and Rick Castor; his sister, Jennifer Clark; his step-sister, Stevie Ewing; his step- brother, Jon Castor; and his grandparents, Margaret Hawkins, Orville Henry, and Pat Henry.

Gary Henry was one of Indianapolis' great public servants, and his passion was visible in every aspect of his life. He joined the Indiana National Guard in 1991 while he was a student at Whiteland High School. Gary retired from the Guard 12 years ago, but rejoined in 2007, hearing once again the call to national service. A 12-year veteran of the Indianapolis Fire Department, Gary was known to his peers as a team player, a dependable and upstanding leader who could be counted on during hard times. He served as a captain and coordinator of special operations, head of the crisis response team, a paramedic, and a Marion County Deputy.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the extraordinary example Gary set. Today and always, Gary will be remembered by family, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice to this valiant fallen soldier, I recall President Abraham Lincoln's words as he addressed the families of soldiers who died at 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 we can take some measure of solace in knowing that Gary's heroism and memory will outlive the record of the words here spoken.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Gary M. Henry in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace. When I think about this struggle in which we are engaged, and the immeasurable pain that comes with so great a loss, I pray that Gary's family 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 Gary.

Specialist Jonathan D. Menke

Further, Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SPC Jonathan D. Menke from Madison, IN. Jon was 22 years old when he lost his life on August 4, 2008, in Baghdad, Iraq, from injuries sustained from a roadside bomb that detonated near his vehicle. He was a member of the 38th Military Police Company, 38th Infantry Division, Army National Guard in Danville, IN.

Today, I join Jonathan's family and friends in mourning his death. Jonathan will forever be remembered as a loving son, brother, friend and soldier. He is survived by his mother, Debbie Kay Estes Sizemore; his father and stepmother, Daniel and Paula Menke; his sisters, Kristen Pearson and Nichole Menke; and his brother, Matthew Eversole. Jon was preceded in death by his brother, Shane Pearson.

A lifelong Hoosier, Jon was born in Columbus, IN, and raised in Madison. A 2005 graduate of Madison Consolidated High School, Jon was a successful student with many talents. He was a member of the football and track teams, qualifying for a regional meet as a member of the 400- meter relay team. He was on the honor roll, was awarded for his art skills in sculpture, and had leading roles in school plays. A natural artist, Jon also played guitar and banjo.

In March of 2004, Jon answered the call to serve his country and joined the Indiana National Guard. He graduated from basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in 2005. Returning to his education, Jon attended Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and Ivy Tech in Indianapolis. In February of 2008, Jon was called to active duty and deployed to Kuwait and later to East Baghdad, his last assignment. Jon was an exemplary soldier. For his outstanding service and sacrifice, Jon was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and the Combat Action Badge.

While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in the example Jon set. Today and always, Jon will be remembered by family, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we cherish the sacrifice he made while dutifully serving his country.

As I search for words to do justice to this valiant fallen soldier, I recall President Abraham Lincoln's words as he addressed the families of soldiers who died at 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

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 we can take some measure of solace in knowing that Jon's heroism and memory will outlive the record of the words here spoken.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jonathan D. Menke in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace. When I think about this struggle in which we are engaged, and the immeasurable pain that comes with so great a loss, I pray that Jon's family 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 Jon.

Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the eight outstanding Hoosier athletes representing the State of Indiana and all of the United States in the Games of the XXIX Olympiad in Beijing, China.

Lloy Ball, a volleyball player from Fort Wayne; David Boudia, a diver from Noblesville; Tamika Catchings, a basketball player from Indianapolis; Lauren Cheney, a soccer player from Indianapolis; Richard Clayton, a baseball player from Lafayette; Mary Dunnichay, a diver from Elwood; Thomas Finchum, a diver from Indianapolis; and Bridget Sloan, a gymnast from Pittsboro, will all represent the Hoosier State as members of Team USA.

These Hoosiers have shown superior abilities, extraordinary work ethics, and unflappable determination in their quests to become Olympic athletes. The road to the pinnacle of athletic success has required thousands of hours of demanding training over years of preparation, yet these athletes show us that commitment to excellence truly has its rewards. For some, the spoils of their sacrifice may even come in the form of an Olympic medal.

This Olympiad is the first for many of the Hoosier athletes; others have donned the colors of Team USA before. This year, Lloy Ball, a member of the U.S. men's volleyball team, will become the first male athlete from the United States to compete in four Olympic Games. Lloy's incredible feat will forever be part of Indiana and Olympic sports history, and I know our entire state is immensely proud to count him among our own.

As these eight athletes travel halfway around the globe to compete against the world's finest, they will bring with them the unwavering support of their fellow Hoosiers. The people of Indiana are fortunate to have such an exceptional group representing us at the Olympic Games.

Team USA represents the best America has to offer, and these Hoosiers will make our State and our country proud.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of SSG Travis K. Hunsberger from Goshen, IN. Travis was 24 years old when he lost his life on June 27, 2008, in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained from an improvised explosive device. He was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group of Fort Bragg,