Honoring Our Armed Forces
Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a courageous young man, who dedicated his life to defending the freedom of others. Army SGT Daniel Michael Shepherd of Elyria, OH was killed in Iraq on August 15, 2004, when his vehicle was…
Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to a courageous young man, who dedicated his life to defending the freedom of others. Army SGT Daniel Michael Shepherd of Elyria, OH was killed in Iraq on August 15, 2004, when his vehicle was struck by a bomb. He was only 23 years old.
Daniel--fondly referred to as ``Danny'' by his family and friends-- was deployed to support Operation Iraqi Freedom in September 2003, after being stationed at Fort Riley in Kansas. Danny joined the military in 2000, upon his graduation from high school. A courageous member of the 1st Battalion, 16th infantry regiment, 1st Brigade, Danny was remembered as a committed soldier and loyal friend.
His platoon SGT Ron Tulanowski remembers Danny's reliability and bravery when the Sergeant's armored vehicle was hit by a grenade. In describing Danny's heroism, the Sergeant said that ``he probably saved my life the day I got hit.'' Danny was more concerned for the lives of others than he was for his own. I can think of nothing more honorable.
Danny attended Columbia High School where he played center and tight end on the school's football team. He was known as a great athlete and devoted team player. According to Ray Anthony, the Columbia Township Fire Chief, ``Danny was like the big brother
of the football team.'' One of Danny's former teammates Mike Banyasz also recalled how helpful he was to all his teammates. ``He was starting center and I was backup center,'' he said.
By the third game, he moved to tight end, and I became
starting center. He helped me out a lot. He was a big reason
I became the starter.
Clearly, Danny believed in the value of teamwork. His willingness to always help others be their best made him a truly excellent soldier.
It was also in high school, Mr. President, that Danny met his future wife Kassie for whom he cared deeply. While Danny was in Iraq, Kassie waited anxiously for him at home; she missed her husband terribly.
Kassie gave birth to their son, Daniel A. Shepherd, while Danny was deployed in Iraq. Daniel was born on St. Patrick's Day and according to family members and friends, looks just like his father. Danny was scheduled to return from Iraq a week after he died. He was looking forward to meeting his son for the first time. When Danny died, his son was only six months old.
Recognized for his unrelenting drive, Danny simply had a passion for public service. He attended law enforcement classes at Lorain County Joint Vocational School and planned on contributing to the safety of his community by becoming a police officer upon his return from Iraq. And according to his grandmother Celia, ``Danny understood the value of education and planned on attending college upon his return.''
Friends and family members were inspired by Danny's motivation and positive attitude. He went about his busy and stressful days with an infectious smile on his face. Danny's former teammate Chris Horn said:
Danny's daily schedule was always hectic, yet I never heard
him gripe or complain.
Indeed, Danny's optimism shined through to his peers as he worked to reach his goals. According to Chris, Danny ``seemed like he knew what he wanted to do from the get-go. He said he wanted to be in the military and then when he got out, he wanted to become a cop.''
Danny's family and friends are frequently reminded of his character, reliability, and willingness to help others. Roger Pace--the minister at Broadview Road Church who delivered Danny's eulogy--said that ``the Army calls such people leaders, regardless of rank.'' Indeed, Danny Shepherd epitomizes the definition of leadership.
SGT Andrew Ritchie of New York--who had served in an earlier deployment with Danny--reiterated this characteristic. This is what he said:
Shepherd was one of the best people I ever had the chance
to meet and serve with in the Army. . . . He always did [his
job] to the best of his ability. He would always stop to help
somebody else out when they needed it. All I can really say
is he was a great person.
Danny will leave a lasting impact on everyone he met. His former next door neighbor, Jennifer, reflected upon the sadness she felt when she heard of his death. She wrote the following on an Internet tribute webpage:
So much pain rushed through me all at once because I knew
that I would never get to see `the boy next door' again. The
pain did not last too long, though, because I soon realized
that though Danny's physical presence will no longer be
there, his love and memories will never falter.
Mr. President, Danny Shepherd's heroic actions and service to our country will be honored and remembered long after his death. His optimism will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
My wife Fran and I continue to keep Danny's family--his wife Kassie, their son Daniel, and Danny's parents Karen and Daniel--in our thoughts and prayers.
Private First Class Adam R. Shepherd
Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Army PFC Adam R. Shepherd from Somerville, OH. On January 17, 2006, PFC Shepherd died in Iraq from an illness. He was serving with the 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, based out of Fort Campbell, KY. Adam was 21 years old.
Adam leaves his mother and step-father Susan and Mark Miller, his father Roger Shepherd, and his brothers Marcus Miller, Elijah Miller, and Army SPC Joshua Shepherd, who also is serving with the 2nd Brigade.
Adam was born in Cincinnati on Christmas Day 1984. Growing up, he attended Preble Shawnee High School until he transferred to the Life Skills Center for his senior year. He graduated in 2002, and enlisted in the Army in January 2003. As an infantryman, Adam's relatives say that his superiors in the Army regularly praised him for his positive attitude and for always volunteering for dangerous duties.
Hector Santiago, one of Adam's school teachers, remembers him as a ``very good student. . . . He was an even-keeled, happy-go-lucky type of guy,'' he said. Those who grew up with Adam remember him as a real jokester. He always had something funny to say and was always trying to make his friends smile. For many, he was simply a ray of sunshine in their lives. As one of his friends, J.J. Green, said, ``We had a blast every time we got together. He was always the generous, happy person in our group of friends. I will miss him forever.''
Adam will also be remembered for his politeness and compassion. He was the type of person who was always looking to make new friends. Janeese Martin wrote the following on an Internet tribute webpage in Adam's honor:
I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Adam's death. He
was a very wonderful person. He befriended me when I moved to
Preble Shawnee--no questions asked. I was very proud of him
when I heard that he served his country.
Adam's sense of humor and ability to make others laugh followed him to Iraq, where his fellow soldiers found in him a good friend--someone who could brighten any day. SGT T. Gonzales left Adam's family the following message in tribute to Adam:
I was fortunate to make the acquaintance of this fine
soldier, as well as that of his brother . . . during the
first trip to Iraq in 2003 to 2004. Adam was always one with
jokes in his mind and has shown me the lighter side of life.
. . . He will be greatly missed! My heart, prayers, and
thoughts go with all of you.
PFC Dennis Bluhm had this to say about his friend:
[O]ne thing I can tell you is that Adam made an impact on
everyone he talked to. He has always been able to find a way
to make someone laugh, even when they wanted to cry. He was
one of the BEST friends that anyone could ever have the
privilege of growing up next door to. Adam is not gone--he
lives on in all of our memories, and with a guy like him . .
. he will definitely not be forgotten.
Adam was a loving son and brother. His family dearly misses him. As his mother Susan said, ``I have four children--four boys--and a quarter of my heart is gone.''
Adam's Aunt Ruth wrote the following about her nephew:
Today is Valentine's Day--a time to remember those who you
love. I love Adam. I always will. He brings a smile to my
face everyday when I think of him. He was such a sweet boy
who turned into such a fine young man. My heart goes out to
his mother, who will always be my friend and sister. . . . I
recall the saying, `It matters not how much we love, but how
much we are loved.' And Adam was so very loved--'till we meet
again, Adam.
Adam will always be remembered for his warm, beaming smile. From the day he was born, as his Aunt Rose remembers that his smile just stood out--that it was truly unforgettable.
Adam was proud that he fulfilled his dream of becoming a soldier and serving our Nation. He was brave and dedicated. His service to our country has earned him several awards, including the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Medal.
When I think of young men like Adam, I am reminded of the words of President John F. Kennedy. This is what he said:
Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill,
that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any
hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the
survival and the success of liberty.
Without question, Adam served his country bravely to help ensure the success of liberty. He was a man of courage and loyalty, devoted to his family, his fellow soldiers, and his country. But what's more, Adam served cheerfully, and with a smile. Army PFC Adam Shepherd will never be forgotten.
My wife Fran and I continue to keep Adam's friends and family in our thoughts and prayers.
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.
I thank the Chair. And I thank the Chair for his patience.
sergeant justin hoffman
Mr. President, I rise this evening to pay tribute to a fellow Ohioan--Marine Sgt Justin Hoffman from Delaware. On August 3, 2005, Sergeant Hoffman died when a roadside bomb detonated under his military vehicle in Iraq. He was serving with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment. Sergeant Hoffman leaves his father Robert, mother and step-father Carole and Chuck and younger brothers Tyler and Travis. Justin was 27 year old at the time of his death.
Growing up, Justin's father remembers that his son came to love motorcycles, cars, and anything competitive. He was smart, funny, and dedicated.
His friends and loved ones remember that he had one of the biggest hearts they had ever known. His smile and laughter will always be remembered. He was fun loving, but would also jump to be there for anyone who needed him.
Those who knew Justin remember that he loved to talk about pretty much anything--whether it was politics, cars, women, or his personal dedication to serving his country. And that is something that everyone remembers about Justin Hoffman--he was always proud to be serving our Nation in the Marines Corps.
Justin graduated from Worthington Christian High School in 1995 and then attended the Ohio State University. Before his junior year of college, he had joined the Marine Reserves. Justin's father had also served in the Marines and remembers how proud he was of his son's decision.
Justin's mother Carole recalls that he joined the Marines not only because he wanted to follow family tradition, but because he had ``wanted some discipline in his life.'' She said that she saw a change in Justin after he completed his military training as a marine sharpshooter.
``He was a good Marine,'' she said.
After graduating from Ohio State, Justin began working with information systems at Cardinal Health Center in Columbus. His dad recalls that his son's intelligence qualified him for the job, but that he was also big and strong and needed an outlet for his excess energy. Karen DePoy worked with Justin at Cardinal Health Center and remembers how smart he was. She wrote the following message on an Internet tribute Web site:
It seems like just yesterday that I was getting this super
sharp intern to work with. What a terrific young kid, I
thought, as we
discussed everything from personal investments to keeping the
faith during rough times.
Josh Busic also worked with Justin. This is what he wrote about his friend:
He was one of the reasons I looked forward to coming into
work every day. There was never a boring day with him at
work. Whether it was one of his stories of someone he raced
in his car, some [silly] clip on the Internet he wanted all
of us to see, some argument on politics (there were a lot of
those) . . . him telling a story about one his brothers (whom
he talked about quite a bit), or just him ragging on us about
something that only he would think of--Justin was a good
friend and my only regret is that I didn't know him longer
than I did.
More than anything, Justin was a dedicated person. He was dedicated to his family, his job, and his marines. After 7 years of serving in the Reserves, he re-enlisted in 2004. His mother remembers that Justin's reason for re-enlisting was because of the men he trained with. ``He wanted to be their leader,'' she said.
Justin brother Tyler echoed these sentiments, when he said that ``Justin told me that he couldn't let them--[his Marines]--go alone because he loved his men so much. He considered his whole squad to be brothers.
Justin loved his fellow marines, and he loved his family. He was exceptionally close to his brothers, Tyler and Travis. Their parents would never let them fight while growing up, and Tyler remembers how protective Justin was of him. In Tyler words, Justin was a great brother, and more than that, he was a great friend.
Justin's brother Travis remembers that the three of them were ``inseparable.'' Justin was the best man in his wedding. It is a memory he will always cherish. He remembers that his brother could always make him laugh.
During his 27 years, Justin had also found the love of his life--his girlfriend, Teri Price. The two planned to get married one day, and Teri remembers that Justin would tease her about proposing as soon as he stepped off the plane on his way back from Iraq.
Teri recalls how much she loved Justin's smile and how ``he could always make me laugh and [how] he was always joking. I loved him more than anything.''
Teri--who knew Justin as ``Fen,'' short for his middle name of Fenton--left him the following message on the Internet tribute website:
Fen, there aren't words deep enough to express how I feel
about you. I love you more than anything and was looking
forward to spending the rest of our lives together. You are
the most generous, selfless, kind, amazing, funny, thoughtful
person I know. I am so proud of you, and I am honored to have
been a part of your life. You made every day a happier day.
Family was so important to Justin. While in Iraq, he always kept in contact with his mother. He would e-mail, write, and call on a regular basis. His mom Carole remembers how Justin always wanted to hear about how things were at home. ``Justin loved Eagle Pizza and wanted to hear about the tree that needed uprooting in the yard,'' she said. ``Justin just spoke the truth.''
Justin's father remembers the last conversation he had with his son. It was after Justin's close friend--fellow Ohio Marine Cpl Andre Williams--had been killed in Iraq. Justin reassured his father that there was nothing he needed, and then said good-bye with the following words: I love you, Dad.
Mr. President, Marine Sgt Justin Hoffman lived a life that was honorable and heroic. He was a devoted son, brother, and boyfriend. Everyday, he is dearly missed by his family, friends, and loved ones.
My wife Fran and I will continue to keep his family in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Lance Corporal Bryan N. Taylor
Mr. President, this evening, I rise to pay tribute to a brave marine from Milford, OH. LCpl Bryan Taylor, who was killed in Iraq on April 6, 2006, after he had been there for just 5 weeks. Bryan is survived by his parents Rick and Sherri Taylor, and his younger brother Matthew. He was just 20 years old at the time of his death.
A 2004 graduate of Milford High School, Bryan had a strong interest in computers and technology. He also attended Live Oaks Career Development Center, where he studied computer-assisted drafting during his last 2 years of high school. According to those close to him, Bryan ``knew no strangers and had no enemies.'' One of his favorite things to do was simply sit around and talk about good memories with his friends.
While reflecting on their memories of Bryan, his friends stressed his unceasing loyalty. Bryan's friend John Legleu said that ``people who didn't even know Bryan that well are calling to tell me what he meant to them. He had a way of finding things in common, and he always found the good in people.''
Friend Stacey Flick, added:
Bryan strived to make sure he was there for his friends no
matter what.
In fact, friends say it was the camaraderie of the Marine Corps that led Bryan to enlist.
As his friend James Wallace said:
Bryan was pretty much everything you want in a friend. . .
. He had such a big influence on the people he knew.
Those who knew Bryan also remember his compassion and his willingness to listen. As his friend John said:
I would always seek advice from [Bryan]. Even though I was
older, I would always get his opinion. He was mature beyond
his years.
Bruce Wallace, the father of Bryan's best friend James, shared the following story about Bryan. This is what he said:
I'd come home from work and Bryan would be sitting in the
living room, watching TV alone, waiting for Jamie. I'd ask
him if he was hungry. He'd say, `No, I already ate,' and I'd
go into the kitchen and see an empty cereal bowl in the sink!
He was the only person who could get away with this because
he was truly my second son. He wasn't like any of us. He was
so exceptional.
After enlisting in 2005, Bryan quickly made friends among his fellow marines. PVT Adam Michaels met Bryan during their training and shared this story about him:
Bryan was a great guy, and we had a lot of good times. I
hung out with him before he left [for Iraq], and he always
had a great presence. I remember watching Bengals games with
him even though I am a huge Packers fan! He was as great as
they come.
Bryan lived life fully and left a lasting impression on his friends, family, and community. After his death, Miami Township named the football field at Miami Meadows Park, where Bryan used to played Pee Wee football, in his honor.
Additionally, Clermont County held a ``Celebration of Life'' in tribute to Bryan. This celebration included a balloon launch of 60 red, white, and blue balloons, each filled with a note from Bryan's family and friends. Bryan's family also received an outpouring of support from many other families of fallen servicemembers, which has meant so very much to them.
In talking about the loss of servicemembers, GEN George S. Patton-- who I know is a favorite of the Presiding Officer--once said that we should not mourn those who die on the field of battle. ``Rather,'' he said, ``we should thank God that such men lived.''
Indeed, Mr. President, while we mourn, we do thank God that Bryan Taylor lived. He was a good son, brother, friend, and marine. Everyone who knew him loved him.
In December 2005, Bryan visited his old high school dressed in his marine uniform. He came to say goodbye to his former teachers before leaving to serve in Iraq. According to those at the high school, he was very proud to be a marine and visited frequently to keep in touch with his favorite teachers. Milford High School Assistant Principal Mark Lutz shared the following story about his final visit with Bryan:
Bryan had a young person's bravado. . . . Bryan was an
excellent young man. He was always looking for a new
challenge. . . . I think the Marines gave him a sense of
direction.
Assistant Principal Lutz also remembers the pride with which Bryan served. This is what he said:
Bryan was very proud of his decision to serve in the
Marines, which he credited with giving him direction and
helping him become an adult. He was looking forward to
returning to his unit to prepare for his tour of duty in
Iraq.
In describing his role in the military, Bryan, himself, wrote the following paragraph shortly before he died:
I am a Marine. . . . I am proud of what I do and to serve
the country that I do. We are here for you and your families.
We are the ones who are willing to give our lives to make
your life easier and safer. . . . I have seen a lot of good
men lose their lives because of what our beliefs are. I honor
these men every day.
Indeed, Mr. President, we all must honor these brave souls--and Marine LCpl Bryan Taylor is one of them. He will be remembered as a wonderful young man, a loyal friend, and a proud marine. My wife Fran and I continue to keep his family in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Staff Sergeant Jason A. Benford
Mr. President, this evening, I rise to honor the life of Army SSG Jason A. Benford from Toledo, OH. On September 27, 2005, SSG Benford died when insurgents attacked his patrol with small-arms fire in Ramadi, Iraq. He was 30 years of age at the time.
Staff Sergeant Benford was a devoted family man--the husband of Kimberly and the father of two young sons, Lane and Jacob. He is also survived by his parents George and Linda Benford, his sisters Kimberly and Lori, his brother John, his grandparents Robert and Deloris, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jason truly was an excellent serviceman--the epitome of what a professional soldier should be. He was also a man who cared deeply for family and friends. His personal integrity and his devotion to duty were unmatched, and he consistently set high standards for himself.
Jason was born on June 8, 1975. A 1993 graduate of Bowsher High School, he attended the University of Toledo before enlisting in the Army in 1994. He originally enlisted for 3 years, as a ``learning and growing'' experience. But it turned out that the Army was Jason's true calling, and he re-enlisted once his initial service was complete. According to his step-mother, Jason was planning to make the Army his career.
After graduating from Basic and Advanced Individual Training, Jason served in the Republic of Korea before being assigned to Fort Benning, GA, where he served as team leader and senior gunner. In Georgia, Jason found more to keep him busy than simply being an excellent soldier. It was at this time that he met and married Kimberly, the love of his life, whose hometown was near Fort Benning.
``My mother had told me not to date soldiers,'' Kim remembers. ``But I did--and I married him.'' Shortly after being married in January 1998, Jason was transferred to Vilseck, Germany, where he and Kim remained for 3 years before returning to Georgia.
Jason loved his wife dearly, but he also loved his Ohio State University football, and on January 3, 2003, which was both his wedding anniversary and the night of the Buckeyes' legendary NCAA championship game against Miami, he had to make a choice. The decision, however, was easy. Lucky for him, Kim ate quickly, and the game went into overtime. ``He took me out to dinner,'' Kim laughed, ``but he was looking at his watch the whole time. He lived in Georgia, but he was always a Buckeye.''
In July 2005, Jason was able to spend Independence Day with his family while on a 2-week leave. It was a time in which many memories were made. ``We spent time in Panama City, went to a Braves game in Atlanta, and had fun at Whitewater,'' Kim remembers. ``It was a great time to be together--just the family.''
Kim remembers that her husband was a calm, even-tempered man who did not easily lose his cool. ``He's always been a special, special person, so even-toned,'' she said. ``He'd handle all types of situations and not even break a sweat. That was one of the things we appreciated so much, [and] I know the soldiers did too.''
Those who served with Jason also remember his calm demeanor and his optimistic nature. CPT Brian Mehan left his friend the following message on an Internet tribute website in memory of Jason:
Staff Sergeant Benford and I served together. His levity
and friendly demeanor made even the hard times more bearable.
The world will be a lesser place without him.
Those who knew Jason have rallied around his family in support. Stacey Jarzeboski, from Toledo, left his parents and family the following message on that Internet tribute website:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My sisters (Becky &
Kim) and I were childhood friends of John and Jason. I can
remember how full of life [they] were together. I'm sorry
that he was taken from you.
Nothing was more important to Jason than his family, and he talked to Kim as often as possible while in Iraq. According the Kim, they sent instant messages to each other twice a day and talked on the phone regularly while he was stationed there. After he was sent to Ramadi, however, Jason was only able to call once--the day before he died.
Jason was completing his second tour of duty in Iraq when he was killed. His service to our Nation earned him more medals than I can name here, but they include the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), and the Army Achievement Medal, (6 Oak Leaf Clusters).
Mr. President and Members of the Senate, Army SSG Jason Benford was devoted both to the Army and to his country. But most importantly, Jason was a loving husband, father, and son--someone for whom family came first. He loved simply spending time with his family, and sharing his love of sports with his two sons.
Mr. President, my wife Fran and I will continue to keep Jason and his family in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Lance Corporal Dustin Robert Fitzgerald
Mr. President, I rise tonight to pay tribute to Marine LCpl Dustin Robert Fitzgerald from Huber Heights, OH. On August 18, 2004, Lance Corporal Fitzgerald was killed in a vehicle accident in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. He was 22 years old. He is survived by his parents Michael and Melody Fitzgerald, and his brothers Brandon and Shannon.
Ever since he was a small boy, Dusty--as he was known by family and friends--knew that he wanted to serve his country and help his fellow citizens. While attending Wayne High School, he enrolled in the school's Junior ROTC program.
Initially, Dusty wanted to be a pilot in the Air Force. However, he came home one day and told his mother that he instead wanted to be a marine. At such a young age, Dusty knew exactly what he wanted to do. He was determined and took steps to pursue his dream.
Dusty simply loved ROTC. ``He gave his all,'' his mother recalled. ``He enjoyed it so much and took it very seriously.'' Dusty participated in the Junior ROTC program for 3 years.
During this time, Dusty made many friends. The other young students in Junior ROTC respected him and enjoyed his company. They found him to be sincere person--someone with a good sense of humor. One of Dusty's many friends, Brenna Downs, wrote the following in a posting on an Internet tribute to Dusty:
When I heard about what happened to Dusty, I was
immediately taken back to junior high and early high school,
when he used to hang out with all of us. He definitely stood
out in our group with his sense of humor. He was genuine.
Years after I knew him, I still remember how he made us all
laugh. He was a good guy and will be remembered and missed by
his old friends.
Dusty and his friends enjoyed baseball, basketball and wrestling while they were in high school. Dusty's friends were drawn to him for the same reasons his peers at Junior ROTC were drawn to him. His mother said that Dusty ``was very adventurous. [He had a] wonderful sense of humor. [He was] easy-going. He never had an enemy.''
In addition to sports, Dusty was crazy for cars. ``When Dustin wasn't fighting in wars, he loved souping up cars,'' his mother recalled. In high school, Dustin fixed up a 1996 Dodge Stratus, outfitting it with racing tires and a spoiler. And just 4 months before he entered the Marines, he bought his dream car--a 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. He spent hours fixing it up. While he was stationed in the Middle East, Dusty would ask his mother to buy car accessories so he would have them when he got home.
After graduating from Wayne High School in 2000, Dusty began taking steps to fulfill his dream of becoming a marine. When he left for boot camp, his family was extraordinarily proud of him. Melody said of her son, ``Dusty was proud, too. You [could] look into his eyes and see his pride.''
After boot camp, Dusty's life moved quickly. He was assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1-2 with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit out of Camp Lejeune, NC. In January 2003, Dusty and his unit headed overseas on the U.S.S. Gunston Hall. His family missed him tremendously, but they knew he was doing the right thing--that he was doing what he believed in.
Dusty was dearly loved and respected by all. SSG B. Coomer said that being a marine was in Dustin's blood even before he enlisted. He left Dustin's family the following message on the Internet tribute Web site:
I am terribly sorry to hear about Dusty. We graduated the
same year, and we were in Sea Cadets together. At the time, I
was the Cadet leader when I met him. He was a Marine long
before he entered Marine basic training.
I know that he was one of the most well disciplined cadets
in our unit. He always listened very well and took whatever
task we had to accomplish very seriously whether it was Kung
Fu training, drill, or running the obstacle course. He loved
the movie, `Full Metal Jacket' and often, we would joke
around with him telling him that he looked like the main
character. He would quietly laugh and [imitate that]
character.
I am thankful to have known him and to have served with
him. As I have said, he was a Marine long before he ever
entered basic training, and he will never be forgotten as a
friend, Marine, and fellow Sea Cadet.
During a memorial service in Dusty's honor, family, friends and neighbors all gathered to pay their respects. They released blue balloons in his honor.
Dusty be remembered by everyone he met. Christina Benn, who met Dusty in North Carolina, recalls her first meeting with him. This is what she said:
My daughters Alyssa and Lauren and I reside in Greenville,
North Carolina, where I had the pleasure of meeting . . .
Dustin. He was a very loving and compassionate Marine, who
came into our lives and brought us happiness. Our hearts go
out to the Fitzgerald family for life. We will keep you and
your precious loving son in our prayers, and may God help
guide you through these trying times.
The world is a better place since Marine LCpl Dustin Fitzgerald has been in it. He had a glowing smile, a fine sense of humor, a big heart, and a tremendous sense of dedication to his family, community, and country.
My wife Fran and I continue to keep Dustin's family in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Sergeant James Worster
Mr. President, I rise tonight to remember a fallen servicemember--SGT James Worster, from Broadview Heights, OH. Sergeant Worster was serving as a medic with the Army's 10th Command Support Hospital in Baghdad, when he died of cardiac arrest on September 18, 2006. He is survived by his wife Brandy, his young son Trevor, his mother and stepfather Donna and Burleigh Thornton, his brothers Jack and Josh, and his sister Joy. He was just 24 years old.
James Worster was a dedicated and compassionate young man who responded to a pair of tragic events by finding a way to serve his country and help those in need. After his father Richard died from a medical condition in 2000, James was inspired to become a doctor. He simply decided that he wanted to help others.
One year later, James was studying at Cleveland State University when the terrorists attacked the United States on September 11, 2001. The attacks had a profound impact on James and compelled him to enlist in the Army. He had a strong desire to help prevent other such attacks from happening on our homeland. By becoming a medic in the Army, he was able to both honor his father and serve our Nation.
James was born in Fargo, ND, on March 30, 1982. He moved to Alaska when he was 7 and attended middle school and high school in the city of North Pole. Those who knew James describe him as a very focused student, who had a great work ethic. MAJ Jim Alonzo, who guided James through his high school Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program, called him ``a shining star'' who was ``always there.''
These were the very words Major Alonzo used when recommending James for an internship with the National Park Service after James's sophomore year of high school. Although the Park Service told Major Alonzo that they normally didn't hire interns as young as James, he was selected and spent the summers after his sophomore and junior years of high school working at Yellowstone National Park. This is the kind of impressive young man he was.
While serving in the ROTC program in high school, James met Brandy Kusinski. He fell in love. After graduating from North Pole High School in 2000, James joined Brandy, then his fiancee, at Cleveland State University. The two were married on October 13, 2002, and they celebrated the birth of their son Trevor 2 years later.
James felt a strong bond with children, both here at home and in Iraq. According to his mother, James's son Trevor ``was the light of his life.'' Donna said that her son ``hoped someday the country would be safe for his son and all people's [children].''
This caring nature was evident in James's work at the 10th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad, where he treated children who had been shot. His mother Donna said, ``He was glad he was there for them, and he was glad he was there for his soldiers.''
James's work with soldiers and civilians, especially children, served as practice for what he hoped would be a medical career when he returned from Iraq. In Iraq, he performed a range of procedures that would prepare him procedures ranging from setting bones to even delivering babies.
Those who met James were always impressed by his compassion and consideration. Cesar Gonzalez served in the 10th Combat Support Hospital alongside James. According to Cesar, James was one of the kindest persons in the hospital. He said that James would always ask him how he was doing and that he would always put the needs of others above his own. As James's mother said, he just ``loved people, and he [in turn] was loved by a lot of people.''
James's family remembers him as someone who cared deeply about others and pursued his dreams with a smile on his face. In a written statement, his family spoke of this compassion and desire to help those around him. This is what they wrote:
[James] had a very strong faith in God and a very strong
love of country. James lived life to the fullest, raising his
son and being a wonderful son, himself. Pursuing his dreams
took him to the Army, where he learned to save lives and
truly believed he was making a difference. His beautiful
smile and endearing personality brightened any day, and . . .
he was a beacon of light and will forever be remembered and
loved.
While on leave, James was active in the Mustang Club in Colorado, an organization devoted to the preservation and appreciation of Mustang cars. James not only appreciated classic cars, he loved to race them.
It was through racing that James met many friends, including Brandy from Colorado. According to Brandy, racing on the track simply isn't the same without James. She wrote the following on an Internet tribute Web site in James's memory:
He was one of the greatest people I've ever met. I'm sorry
for all those who didn't have a chance to meet him. He
brought so much to everyone he met. It was just amazing to
see someone with that much compassion and heart.
Also posted on that same Internet tribute website, is a message from Vicki Gleisner, whom James knew as ``Aunt Vicki.'' This is what she wrote:
From the first day I met James, I knew he was a very
confident, gentle young man. Even though I think he was only
5 at the time, he wasn't a little boy. He was always
protecting his mom. I guess that when he was satisfied that
his mom was taken care of, he decided to take care of the
rest of us. James always had a very respectful way about him,
and he always made me feel important. Thank you for letting
me be a part of your life, James, and for leaving your smile
in my heart, so I can remember your gentleness.
James was a young man who truly understood the importance of service to others--his family, his friends, and our Nation. He was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. His life was one filled with, and he made a positive impact on everyone whom he met. My wife Fran and I will continue to keep SGT James Worster's family and friends in our thoughts and prayers.
Captain Tyler Swisher
Mr. President, I rise tonight to honor and to remember a fellow Ohioan--Marine Captain Tyler B. Swisher from Cincinnati, OH. On October 21, 2005, CPT Swisher was killed when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Iraq. He was 35 years-old.
Tyler was the type of person who simply never gave up. He always sought out new challenges. At the time of his death, he was serving his third tour of duty in Iraq--and was looking forward to serving two more. This is typical of his dedication and determination to succeed.
In high school, Tyler proved himself academically, by spending hours studying his books and lessons. His hard work paid off, when he made the honor roll during his senior year--an accomplishment for which he was very proud. After high school, Tyler went on to Butler University, where he graduated with a degree in biology in 1993.
And then, Tyler set his sights on the Marines. A longtime friend of the Swisher family, Jack Buckholz, remembers that Tyler attacked the challenges of boot camp with the same ferocity and determination that he had displayed with everything he did. He spent 6 months training on his own to make sure he was prepared. He ran several miles a day and worked construction to strengthen his muscles. ``He had a rope that he would climb every day,'' Jack Buchholz remembers. ``After that, boot camp was not so bad [at all].''
Tyler entered the Marines as an enlisted man and then worked his way up to Officer's Commission in 1997 and eventually became on to being a company commander for the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, based in Camp Lejeune, NC. When he died in Iraq, 200 Marines were under his command.
Tyler died doing what all Marine officers aspire to do--
[and that is] lead Marines in combat,'' said Captain Gary
McCullar, one of Tyler's best friends. ``Tyler never
faltered. Tyler did it right.
Tyler sought out challenges that most people would shy away from-- challenges like training for mountain warfare in Korea, which involved steep climbing, rocky slopes, and living outdoors in harsh elements. ``It was miserable,'' Captain McCullar remembered. ``[And,] he loved it.''
Tyler always pushed himself beyond all expectations and always gave his best--whether it was for himself, his school, or his country.
Tyler was a dedicated and hard-working Marine, but he was also a selfless person, who always placed the needs of family, friends, Marines, and Nation above his own. But, most important to him were his wife Stephanie and their three children: Ashleigh, Madison, and Jacob. Stephanie's brother Peter Lynch remembers that Tyler was a devoted father and a committed husband. For Stephanie, he was consistently a source of strength. No matter how bad a day she was having, he was always able to get a burst of laughter out of her.
And Tyler's daughter Ashleigh left him the following message on an Internet tribute Web site:
Tyler Swisher, my Dad, was an amazing man. He was more than
a Dad to me . . . he was my hero. He gave me the strength to
face many hardships in my life, and he was always there for
me. He was the best father anybody could ask for. He's my
inspiration everyday to live life. . . . I will never stop
missing him. I'm so proud of you Daddy, thanks so much for
being my hero, and protecting us all. With love, Ashleigh.
Todd Smith was one of Tyler's boyhood buddies. At Tyler's funeral, he addressed the following words to his friend:
I remember sitting in the [movie theater], watching `The
Empire Strikes Back' all day long. You were always there for
me more than I was there for you. I could count on you to
tell me right from wrong. I could count on you to stick up
for me, and you taught me to stick up for myself. I've always
looked up to you and can't begin to say how proud I am of
you. You made the ultimate sacrifice for your country, and
you are truly a hero. I am lucky and blessed you were part of
my life.
Tyler's fellow Marines in Iraq felt the same respect and admiration for Tyler as his family and friends did back home. Doug Miorandi from Phoenix, AZ, expressed his respect for his friend and fellow serviceman on an Internet tribute Web site. This is what he wrote:
I was fortunate enough to have served with Tyler and feel
honored to call him my friend. Tyler and I were roommates for
over two years, serving at both Marine Barracks Washington,
D.C., and the Presidential Retreat at Camp David. From being
a `spit and polished' Presidential Security Guard to a hard
charging Marine grunt, Tyler epitomized the word `Marine.'
I'll never forget our time together, and I feel fortunate to
have been a part of your life.
CPT Tyler Swisher was buried a hero at Arlington National Cemetery, and I am honored that I had the opportunity to attend the funeral services in Ohio for this fine marine. The streets were lined with family, friends and fellow servicemen and women who had come to honor him. Everyone I spoke to that sunny November day had the same thing to say--Tyler Swisher had loved being a marine, and he loved what he was doing.
I would like to conclude with the words of Tyler's dear friend, CPT Gary McCullar, who was Tyler's military escort on his final journey home. In a letter to the Cincinnati Post thanking the community and citizens for the respect and honor they showed to Tyler and his family, he wrote the following:
Captain Swisher epitomized the meaning of the Marines. He
was a leader, he was tough, he was the best that this country
has to offer, but most importantly he was a man who loved his
wife and children and enjoyed spending every minute he could
with them. Captain Swisher was also the best friend I ever
had. I am very proud of how the City honored my friend.
Indeed the world is a better place because of Tyler Swisher. My wife Fran and I will continue to keep his family--his wife Stephanie and their three children Ashleigh, Madison, and Jacob, his parents David and Mary Beth Swisher, and his siblings John and Sara--in our thoughts and in our prayers.
I thank the Chair very much this evening. I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.