Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of the brave lance corporal from Bryant, Indiana. Andrew Whitacre, 21 years old, died on June 19, 2008, in Farah Province, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained while his unit was conducting combat operations. He was a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, G Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division from Twentynine Palms, CA.

Andrew graduated from Jay County High School in 2005. Andrew loved sports and was an avid snowboarder. Those who knew him best recall a brave young man with an extraordinary sense of generosity. He enlisted in the Marines at the age of 17, telling his family that if he served, another would be spared that decision. Anderw left for boot camp in July of 2005, shortly after graduating from high school. Proud of his service and patriotic in spirit, Andrew never wavered in his decision to enlist. His family said it was the surest decision he ever made.

In March of this year, Andrew proposed to his fiancee, Casey McGuire of

Parker, AZ. He was due to return in November. Casey described Andrew as her ``hero,'' and said that he asked her to encourage everyone to send letters to American servicemembers abroad, thanking them for their service and showing their support. Andrew truly had the needs of others always at heart.

Today, I join Andrew's family and friends in mourning his death. Andrew will forever be remembered as a son, brother and friend to many. He is survived by his his father and stepmother, Ernie and Norma Whitacre; his mother and her fiancee, Susan Nunly and Michael Perry; his fiancee, Casey McGuire; his brothers, Ryan Murphy and Justin Miller; his sister, Ashley Williams; and his grandmothers, Mildred Whitacre, Caroline Huffman, Beulah Murphy, and Mary Scott.

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 Andrew. Today and always, Andrew 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 Andrew'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 Andrew's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Andrew Francis Whitacre in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged, and the pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that Layton'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 Andrew.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of the brave lance corporal from Richmond, IN. Layton Crass, 22 years old, died on June 14, 2008, in Farah Province, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained while his unit was conducting combat operations. He was a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines from Twentynine Palms, CA.

Layton graduated from Richmond High School in 2005. Outgoing and active in school, Layton also loved rollerblading, paintball, and computers. Public service was a family tradition for Layton; his father is a veteran and his brother, Donald, serves in the U.S. Marines, as well. In high school, Layton was part of the Richmond Police Youth Cadet Program and, according to his family, surprised no one when he enlisted in the Marines. It had been his ambition since he was 16 years old.

Before his deployment in Afghanistan, Layton served an 8-month tour in Iraq. Layton never wavered in his commitment to his country or to the Armed Services. His friend, Dustin Gibbs, told a local newspaper that he joined the Marines because of Layton's inspiration. Gibbs had this to say of his comrade: ``He was a true friend and an extremely brave man. He had a huge heart and made quite an impact on my life and my future to come.'' These words illustrate the great influence Layton had on those lucky enough to know him. His memory will live on long past his years through the many lives he touched.

Today, I join Layton's family and friends in mourning his death. Layton will forever be remembered as a son, brother, and friend to many. He is survived by his parents Donald and Lynne Shingledecker Crass; his sister Dusty Nichole Throop and her husband Nicholas; his brother Devin James Crass and his wife Megan Elizabeth; his nephew, Brenton Isaiah Throop; and his grandparents, Mary Ann and Bob Coons, Zeb and Darlene Crass and Virginia Shingledecker.

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 Layton. Today and always, Layton 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 Layton'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 Layton's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Layton Bradly Crass 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 pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that Layton'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 Layton.

Mr. President, today I honor a great Hoosier teacher, Brenda Zody, whose many accomplishments during 39 years as an Indiana educator serve as an example for us all. As Brenda prepares to retire from service to the children of Indiana, it is appropriate that we take a moment to give thanks to her for all she has offered to those she has reached throughout her career.

Brenda is a native of Martinsville, IN, and is a 1966 graduate of Martinsville High School. She received both her BS and MS degrees in education from Indiana State University, and began teaching in 1969 in Flint, MI. She moved back to her home state after a year, becoming an elementary school teacher at Staunton Elementary in Clay County, IN, while living in Vigo County.

In 1979, she returned to Martinsville with her family and began teaching second grade at Green Township Elementary, where she herself attended first, second and third grade as a child. She began teaching fourth grade in the late 1980s. During her time as a fourth-grade teacher, Brenda was involved heavily in the ``Computer at Home/Buddy Project,'' an innovative education network which provided fourth and fifth graders across the State with take-home computers. She made it a point to take her students each year on Indiana history field trips, such as the Indiana Statehouse, the James Whitcomb Riley Home, the Benjamin Harrison Home, the new and old Indiana State museums, historic Vincennes and McCormick's Creek State Park. In addition, she was also heavily involved in the continuation of annual visits by Martinsville students to Cross School, one of Morgan County's only surviving one- room schoolhouses. Here, dressed in period clothing, students spend a day learning what school meant to children generations ago.

Brenda consistently went above and beyond the expectations of her post and, in doing so, imparted a love for the State of Indiana on her students. For these efforts, she was awarded the 2003 Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year award in Martinsville. She also played a critical role in developing the first written history of Green Township Elementary School. Today, Brenda resides in Morgan County on property that has been in her family for about 100 years. She is the mother of John Zody of Bloomington and Erin Zody Kaiser of Greenville, and is grandmother to Gavin and Ruth Kaiser. Brenda's parents are Bill and Ruth Hammans of Martinsville.

As Brenda prepares to retire from the Metropolitan School District of Martinsville, I am reminded of a quote by Henry Brooks Adams, ``A teacher affects eternity; she can never tell where her influence stops.'' While no longer in the classroom, her influence upon the students she has taught will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of the brave Army sergeant from Knox, Indiana. Joseph Ford, 23 years old, died on May 10, 2008, in Al Asad, Iraq, from injuries sustained when his vehicle overturned during a training operation. With an optimistic future before him, Joseph risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

A lifelong Hoosier, Joseph graduated from Knox High School in 2003. His teachers and friends recall a young man with a thirst for knowledge and a generous spirit. Shortly after finishing high school, Joseph joined the Indiana National Guard and was stationed in New Albany. Joseph was fiercely dedicated to serving his country and disciplined himself to meet the high standards of military fitness. He enrolled in the University of Southern Indiana, where he studied history, a passion he had since high school. In June, Joseph married his wife, Karen, of Evansville, IN.

Joseph traveled to Georgia in December with his National Guard unit for training before he left for his first deployment in Iraq. He was scheduled for deployment through 2009 but planned to return this summer to celebrate his first wedding anniversary with Karen. Assigned to the 1st Squadron, 152nd Cavalry Regiment, Army National Guard in New Albany, IN, Joseph served as a turret gunner with the Indiana National Guard's 76th Infantry Brigade in Iraq.

Today, I join Joseph's family and friends in mourning his death. Joseph will forever be remembered as a loving husband, son, and friend to many. He is survived by his wife Karen; his parents Sam and Dalarie; his brother Matthew; and his sister Abbey Ambrose.

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 Joseph, a memory that will burn brightly during these continuing days of conflict and grief. Today and always, Joseph 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 Joseph'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 Joseph's actions will live on far longer that any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of Joseph A. Ford 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 pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope 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 today honor Mrs. Sarah Rozensky, who served with excellence in my office for over 6 years. Sarah performed her duties with the utmost distinction and a level of professionalism and virtue rarely seen. I am proud to have this opportunity to recognize Sarah for the tremendous work she has done for the office and my family. My wife, Susan, and my sons, Beau and Nick, will also be eternally grateful for her service.

Sarah came to my office with the highest of recommendations from the

White House and proved herself invaluable on a daily basis. Her qualities were contagious in our office; everyone learned and benefited from her presence.

For over 6 years, Sarah's meticulous attention to detail set the standard for those around her, as did her positive attitude and superior work ethic. Her gifts will undoubtedly allow her to excel to new heights in the future.

Every member of our staff plays an important role in our service in the Senate and to our respective States, but there are always the few who distinguish themselves as invaluable and irreplaceable. For me, Sarah Rozensky is one of those distinguished few. With Sarah's hard work and assistance, I have been better able to represent the people of Indiana in the Senate. Hoosiers all owe Sarah Rozensky a debt of gratitude, but most especially, I do.

I am proud today to honor Sarah for her service and commitment to the people of Indiana and the Senate.

Mr. President, Senator Lugar and I honor Congresswoman Julia Carson by urging the Senate to support the legislation, S. 2534, which will designate a U.S. Post Office in Indianapolis in her name.

The U.S. Postal Service recommended the Mapleton Station Post Office in Indianapolis be the location named in her honor. Congresswoman Carson was not only instrumental in the erection of the new Mapleton Station, which opened its doors at a new location on July 15, 2005, but she also attended the dedication ceremony for the new building on August 11, 2005. This new, attractive building will be a terrific sign of respect for her.

Congresswoman Carson was born on July 8, 1938, in Louisville, KY. When she was only 1 year old, Julia and her family moved to Indianapolis. Carson graduated from Crispus Attucks High School in 1955 and attended Martin University in Indianapolis and Indiana University- Purdue University at Indianapolis.

Julia Carson's political career began when she was working in the Indianapolis office of former Congressman Andy Jacobs, who served 15 terms as the Congressman from Indianapolis, 10th District, Indiana. Jacobs encouraged Carson to run for the Indiana House of Representatives. Elected in 1972, Carson served in the Indiana House of Representatives for 4 years. In 1976, after serving in the Indiana House, Julia Carson successfully ran for a seat in the Indiana Senate, where she continued to serve Hoosiers for 14 years. In that position, Julia Carson gave unfailing support to Indiana's successful ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment and supported legislation to improve women's economic status, such as the bill she advocated to include household workers in the minimum wage.

After serving in the Indiana Senate, Carson became a trustee for Center Township of Marion County, an area comprised of downtown Indianapolis, where she instituted aggressive measures to help the city's homeless and trimmed the inflated welfare rolls by imposing new rules that required able-bodied recipients to work or attend school as a condition of receiving poor relief. In 1992, Julia Carson was declared Woman of the Year by the Indianapolis Star for her efforts to improve welfare and create a fiscal surplus in Marion County. Her dedication to Indianapolis continued to the U.S. House of Representatives. In 1996, Andy Jacobson retired from the U.S. House of Representatives, and Carson successfully won his seat, representing what was then Indiana's 10th Congressional District. Representative Julia Carson is only the third woman and second African American to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Indiana.

As Congresswoman, Julia Carson is best remembered for her leadership awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to Rosa Parks for her instrumental role in the civil rights movement. Carson worked closely with Senator Evan Bayh on initiatives to establish a program that would promote more responsible fatherhood by creating educational, economic, and employment opportunities. She also worked with

Senator Richard Lugar to improve children's health care.

While in Congress, Julia Carson served on the Committee of Financial Services, the Subcommittee of Financial Services and Consumer Credit, the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Material, and the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. Carson was also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus. Throughout her 10 years in Congress, Julia Carson worked tirelessly for the poor and forgotten.

Shortly after announcing her diagnosis with terminal lung cancer, Julia Carson died on December 15, 2007, at age 69. At her funeral service, those who spoke all said Carson, the daughter of an unwed teenage mother who worked as a housekeeper, never forgot where she came from. Therefore, it is only fitting that the Congress designate a post office in the name of Julia M. Carson in her hometown of Indianapolis.

Mr. President, with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude, I wish to honor the life of a brave soldier. LCpl Johnathon Goffred, 22 years old, died unexpectedly on January 26 in Camp Pendleton, CA. Johnathon was a dedicated soldier, loving son, grandson and brother, and a valued friend to many.

Johnathan grew up in Johnson County, IN, with his paternal grandparents, Walter and MaryAnn Sparrow. He graduated from Center Grove High School in Greenwood in 2003, where he was active in sports and assisted the Center Grove Little League. It was his dream to become an Indiana State Police trooper.

In 2005, Johnathon joined the Marines where he was a rifleman with the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment. Johnathon served a 7-month tour of duty in the Anbar province of Iraq, returning in 2007. For his excellent service, Johnathan was awarded the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. His comrades remember him as a devoted friend who was generous with all he had. One of his fellow servicemen described him as the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

Johnathan is survived by his mother, Angie Martin Goffred; his paternal grandparents, Walter and MaryAnn Sparrow; his maternal grandfather, Bill Goffred; his seven brothers, Dale, Shawn, Nick, Tom, Wes and Kragen Sparrow and Michael Paul; and his eight sisters, Tina Seril, Mellisa, Keria, Keisa, Quinci, Brianna, Shannon and Masada Sparrow.

Today, I join Johnathon's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and kindness that people will remember when they think of Johnathon. Today and always, Johnathan will be remembered by family members, friends, and fellow soldiers as a true American hero, and we honor his service to our country.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of LCpl Johnathon Goffred 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 Johnathon'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 Johnathon.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave soldier. SGT Jon Michael Schoolcraft, III, 26 years old, died January 19 in Taji, Iraq. Sergeant Schoolcraft died of injuries he sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. With an optimistic future before him, Jon risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Jon Schoolcraft, called Mike by his friends, graduated from Wapakoneta High School in Ohio in 2001. Growing up in Ohio with his mother, Cindy Schoolcraft-Hooker, Mike also spent time in Madison, IN, visiting his father, Mike Schoolcraft, Jr. Mike excelled at sports and particularly enjoyed skateboarding. His sense of duty to his country and a desire to see the world drove him to enroll in the Army's Delayed Entry Program while in high school.

After serving a first tour in Iraq, Mike reenlisted, telling a friend that he could not imagine doing anything other than being a soldier. In November of last year, Mike married his wife Amber and decided that his next tour in Iraq would be his last so they could begin a family. Mike was assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Schofield Barracks, HI. For his extraordinary service, Mike was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

Today, I join Mike's family and friends in mourning his death. While

we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Mike. Today and always, Mike will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow soldiers 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 Mike'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 Mike's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of SGT Jon Michael Schoolcraft, III, in the Record of the U.S. Senate for his service to this country and for his profound commitment to freedom, democracy and peace. When I think about this just cause in which we are engaged, and the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Mike'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 Mike.

Madam President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave soldier from Plymouth, IN. LCpl Cameron Babcock, 19 years old, died January 20th at Twentynine Palms Marine Base in California. Lance Corporal Babcock was killed as the result of a firearms accident in his barracks. Cameron was a committed soldier and servant to his country.

Cameron was a 2006 graduate of Plymouth High School and was a gifted musician. He played the trumpet in the Big Red Marching Band and was a member of the Plymouth High School Advanced Jazz Band. In 2005, he competed at the State Jazz Festival in LaPorte with the Advanced Jazz Band. He was also a member of the Wind Ensemble, comprised of some of the school's top music students. Cameron also played the guitar and enjoyed four-wheeling.

After graduation, Cameron fulfilled a lifelong goal by enlisting in the Marines, telling his family it was what he had always hoped to do. He was promoted to private first class after boot camp and was a rifleman in the infantry. With his assignment to Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Cameron served an exemplary tour in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a decorated soldier and received numerous awards during his tour in Iraq including the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the Certificate of Commendation.

Cameron was awaiting his second tour of duty in Iraq when he died. He is survived by his parents, Jeffery and Ann Smith Babcock; his sisters Kailey, Abigail, and Hope Babcock; and his brother, Samuel Babcock. The Babcock family resides in Plymouth.

Today, I join Cameron's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Cameron. Today and always, Cameron will be remembered by family members, friends and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero, and we honor the example he set in serving his country.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of LCpl Cameron M. Babcock 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 the unfortunate pain that comes with the loss of our heroes, I hope that families like Cameron'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 Cameron.

Major Andrew J. Olmsted

Mr. President, I wish to speak about the importance of counting the votes of military personnel and American citizens living abroad. These votes--defined as Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act votes, UOCAVA--are consistently neglected.

According to an Elections Assistance Commission, EAC, report issued in September, less than 17 percent of the estimated 6 million potentially eligible overseas voters sought to participate in the 2006 elections. This concerns me greatly. Further, of the 992,034 requested overseas ballots in 2006, only 333,179 were actually counted--leaving potentially more than 66 percent of overseas voters that wanted to vote in 2006 disenfranchised.

In June, the GAO released a report that urged the EAC, and other Federal agencies, to better serve our UOCAVA voters. I believe that the EAC has an opportunity to rectify this situation now.

The fiscal year 2008 Omnibus appropriations bill includes $115 million that will be distributed to the States so that they can proceed to implement the Help American Vote Act. All State and local elections officials are aware of the difficulties receiving and counting ballots from overseas military personnel and citizens living abroad. The Department of Defense, through the Federal Voting Assistance Program, continues to struggle with this problem.

The EAC report recommends that states make a great effort to ensure that obstacles to voting experienced by members of the service members and citizens living abroad--including voter registration, ballot receipt, and ballot return--should be reduced, minimized, or eliminated. To this end, several States intend to use HAVA funds to implement plans that will allow them to better serve these severely disenfranchised voters. For these reasons, I urge the EAC to clearly notify interested States that HAVA funds are available to facilitate the voting process for UOCAVA voters. I further urge the EAC to distribute 2008 HAVA funding to those States as soon as possible, so that UOCAVA voters do not remain disenfranchised for the 2008 elections.

Mr. President, this past spring, Senator Lugar and I made a joint recommendation to President Bush to nominate Judge John Tinder for a seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, the second highest court in the land. President Bush followed our advice, the Judiciary Committee unanimously approved his nomination, and today I am pleased to announce that the Senate will vote on Judge Tinder's nomination.

I take very seriously the Senate's constitutional duty to provide advice and consent for all judicial nominees. The Senate shares a responsibility with the President to ensure that the judiciary is staffed with men and women who possess outstanding legal skills, suitable temperament, and the highest ethical standing.

I regret, however, that the process for confirming judicial nominees has become too partisan in recent years and has produced too many controversial nominees.

I have worked hard with my friend and colleague, Senator Lugar, to restore civility in Washington and to end the politics of personal destruction. We have worked closely together to build consensus and move forward in a responsible way to address the challenges that face the American people.

John Tinder is the embodiment of good judicial temperament, intellect and evenhandedness. He has been praised from both sides of the political spectrum for his service in the Southern District of Indiana, and I am confident he will receive those kinds of reviews, as well, on the Seventh Circuit.

I have known John for 20 years. Judge Tinder was born in Indiana, went to law school in Indiana, and has spent his entire legal career in Indiana, where he and his wife Jan currently reside. Judge Tinder is a Hoosier through and through.

At only 57, Judge Tinder has had a distinguished legal career that would make most lawyers envious. Judge Tinder has served as a Federal district court judge, Federal and local prosecutor, public defender, adjunct professor, and private practitioner. In 1984, at 34 years of age, he was nominated by President Reagan to become the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. Three years later, Reagan nominated him to become a Federal judge. With over 30 years of experience, Judge Tinder has already practiced on both sides of the bench in the Seventh Circuit, arguing cases before it as an assistant U.S. attorney and presiding by designation in 12 cases. Overall, he has presided over 750 trials and has published over 700 opinions.

By all accounts, Judge Tinder is a good, smart, honest judge, who is highly experienced and capable. Judge Tinder has received the highest possible rating from the ABA.

If we had more nominees like John Tinder, we would have less fighting around this place. He is a good judge, he is a good lawyer, he is thoughtful, and he is nonpartisan. I hope that going forward, perhaps, others of a similar mold will come before us so that we can do our duty with less acrimony.

Judge Tinder enjoys my whole-support, and I ask my Senate colleagues to confirm Judge Tinder to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

Mr. President, in remembrance of Congresswoman Julia Carson, who died on December 15, 2007, I have printed in the Record a column written by former Representative Andy Jacobs Jr. of Indiana.

Mr. President, today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude I honor the life of a brave soldier from Richmond, IN. SPC Johnathan Lahmann, 21 years old, died December 10th in Tikrit, Iraq. Specialist Lahmann died of injuries he sustained in Bayhi, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. With an optimistic future before him, John risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

John was a 2004 graduate of Richmond High School where he avidly studied auto repair with plans to be a mechanic. According to his teacher, Roy Reisinger, John was so dedicated to studying auto repair that he would go to Mr. Reisinger's house on the weekends to work on cars. Mr. Reisinger described John to a local newspaper as ``a top- notch mechanic'' and ``an all-around good young man.'' In addition to his strong work ethic praised by his teachers, his fellow classmates recall John's pleasant demeanor and his friendship.

After graduation, John worked at Mosey Manufacturing. In September 2005, John joined the Army, where he was trained as a combat engineer. He was assigned to the 59th Engineer Company, 20th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade, Fort Hood, TX. In November 2007, John was deployed to Iraq. He is survived by his parents, Linda and Alan C. Lahmann.

Today, I join John's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of John. 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 dutifully 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 SPC Johnathan Alan Lahmann 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 be with all of you, as I know He is with Johnathan.

Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart and deep sense of gratitude to honor the life of a brave soldier from Vevay, IN. SGT Kenneth Raymond Booker, 25 years old, died November 14th in Mukhisa, Iraq. Sergeant Booker died of injuries he sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. With an optimistic future before him, Kenneth risked everything to fight for the values Americans hold close to our hearts, in a land halfway around the world.

Kenneth graduated in 2000 from Switzerland County High School in southeastern Indiana. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Army, happy at the prospect of serving his country. As a member of the 82nd Airborne division from Fort Bragg, NC, Kenneth served in Afghanistan and Iraq. His exemplary service earned him an assignment in military intelligence at Fort Lewis, WA. Kenneth, however, preferred working in the field to an office and requested to transfer back to infantry.

Joining a Stryker Brigade Combat Unit at Fort Lewis, Kenneth returned to Iraq for his third deployment. Kenneth was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. He will be remembered by his friends and family for his clever sense of humor, his love of hunting and target shooting, his outgoing nature, and above all, his outstanding dedication to his country. Kenneth is survived by his father, SSG Charles Booker; his mother, Becky Graham; and his brother, Kaleb Daniel Booker.

Today, I join Kenneth's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to bear our sorrow over this loss, we can also take pride in the example he set, bravely fighting to make the world a safer place. It is his courage and strength of character that people will remember when they think of Kenneth. Today and always, Kenneth 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 Kenneth'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 Kenneth's actions will live on far longer than any record of these words.

It is my sad duty to enter the name of SGT Kenneth Raymond Booker 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 Kenneth'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 Kenneth.

Mr. President, I wish to tell you about a group of extraordinary young Hoosiers. On October 27, National Make A Difference Day, the fifth annual Service Leaders Summit was held in Indianapolis 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 who were honored 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 or feed the hungry. Several of the young men and women led service projects on their own to address the problems in their schools and communities. Each one of the students spends hours making a difference in their hometowns. They have impacted the lives of countless Hoosiers.

During the summit, the students heard from Hoosier leaders who have chosen to dedicate their lives to serving others. The speakers highlighted the five pillars of successful service: inspiration, organization, dedication, evaluation, and reflection. Following the speeches, the students divided into groups and participated in service activities at different sites throughout Indianapolis.

Robert F. Kennedy once said, ``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 has 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.

Mr. President, I would like to thank each one of the following individuals for participating in the summit and for their service to their communities:

Laura Alexander, Kashua Alexander, Alex Anspaugh, Alexis Arnold, Chase Arthur, Tiffany Aylor, Anne Baenziger, Kelsie Ball, Kristin Barnes, Kaitlyn Batt, Brittany Bedwell, Adam Bernaix, Stephanie Bradley, Andrea Bright, Lesley Bright, Margaret Burke, Emily Burnworth, Conner Caudill, Libby Chang, Joshua Clifford, Ashley Clodfelder, Carla Cotton, Victoria Cottrell, Adam Crick, Conner Cunningham, Katie Day, Brittany Dunlavy, Christopher Ellison, Joey Etling, Iris Farries, Lyndsey Fisher, Riley Fitzpatrick, Eva Flick, Emily Friesen, Laura Gadson, Amy Gibson, Cody Goshert, Kimberly Gregory, Megan Haire, Katie Hawkins, Tim Herniak, Shelby Hodge, Cody Hodges, Matthew Hollars, Clinton Horine, Christopher Horn, Nick Horn, Stacey Houmes, Candice Howard-Perry, Kian Hudson, Taylor Jenkins, Ashley Jones, Lyndsey Kellett, Ericka Kelley, Sarah Kelsey, Alison Kocur, George Mammarella, Nicholas Marchi, Nicole McCann, Kristen McMann, Kandace McNeely, Lindsey Meyer, Nicole Miller, Emily Miller, Dennis Moynihan, Kristina Muehr, Benjamin Myers, Megan Noonan, Kayla O'Brien, Michael Padilla, Carmen Perry, Sarah Polk, Shavonda Price, Ravon Price, Chloe Pugh, Alexis Rivera, Sable Robinson, Rachel Rominger, TaMar Shachaf, Emily Shephard, Trevor Shockey, Aaron Smith, Jacob Sowers, Parker Stevens, Colin Stretch, Tha Sung, Jordan Taylor, Jennifer Thilges, Cami Thomas, Jessica Thompson, Vance Torres, Alyssa Vermillion, Tiffany Vogeler, Noah Wahl, Paul Weller, Mackenzie Williams, Lashaa Williams, Becky Wilson, Virginia ``Ginny'' Wright, and Janelle Yaryan.

I would also like to take a moment to express my gratitude to the Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis students who took part in the summit as well. They are role models to younger students, and I am proud to recognize their achievements.

Lauren Bower, Michael Burk, John Burkhardt, Molly Childers, Victoria Easton, Ashley Fry, Paige Gaydos, Sashana Gordon-Jackson, Selene Hernandez-Buquer, Loan Hoang, Jordan Jenkins, Shani Jones, Whitney Kelly, Kyra Kline, David Lane, Janine Mullins, Sharee Myricks, Lauren Nowlin, Pascal Olame, Olutope Omosegbon, Stephanie Pendleton, Megan Prather, Tiffany Reed, Katherine Scheller, Eddie Shmukler, Lygia Vernon, Channe'l Walters, and Brittani Whitmore.