Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Colonel (COL) William David Barton's thirty-one years of service in the Mississippi Army National Guard (MSARNG). COL Barton began his military career on August 13, 1986, when he enlisted as a Cannon Crewman in Service Battery, 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery in his hometown of Kosciusko, Mississippi. He later received his commission through the ROTC program at the University of Mississippi, where he graduated with a degree in marketing in 1990.

COL Barton has served the MSARNG in staff positions at the battalion, brigade and state staff levels, and held command positions at the platoon, company and battalion levels. In 2005, he was deployed to Iraq with the 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) where he first served as Brigade Personnel Officer for the 155th BCT, and then served as the Battalion Operations Officer for 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery. He has held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel since February 1, 2015.

His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Commendation Medal (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Achievement Medal (with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (with one Silver and three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the National Defense Service Medal (with one Star), the Iraq Campaign Medal (with two Campaign Stars), the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with Gold Hourglass, M Device, and Numeral 2), the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Action Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the National Guard Basic Recruiter Badge , the Mississippi Magnolia Cross (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Magnolia Medal (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Commendation Medal, the Mississippi War Medal (with one Star), the Mississippi Emergency Service Medal, the Mississippi Service School Ribbon (with one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Longevity Medal (with one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), and the Mississippi Recruiting Medal.

When asked about his years in the MSARNG, COL Barton said, ``I have been blessed to serve with some of the finest people in the world over the last 31 years. It has been an amazing experience and I am glad to have been able to serve my country and my state in both peacetime and during war. The service members I have served with truly embody the National Guard motto of `Always Ready, Always There' and I could not be more proud of my service alongside them.''

Throughout his career and in preparation for his upcoming retirement, Colonel Barton has been supported by his loving family, including his parents, Gerald and Peggy Barton; his three sisters; his wife, Jennifer Barton; and his four daughters, Brittany Burnham, Ashley Smith, Kelly Barton and Hannah Kelly.

I am thankful for Colonel Barton's many years of military service, and I am proud to call him my friend. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Sergeant (SGT) Adrian Noe Orosco who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 9, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Orosco was killed when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted position during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. SGT Orosco was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California.

Elizabeth Orosco, SGT Orosco's wife, paid tribute to her husband on a memorial website. ``He was a wonderful father and a beautiful person,'' Mrs. Orosco wrote. ``He was the love of my life and I had ten beautiful years with him. I love him. I miss him and he's not forgotten.'' Sergeant (SGT) Reynaldo Salazar served with SGT Orosco. He also paid tribute to SGT Orosco on a memorial website. ``I met Adrian at Fort Irwin, California,'' SGT Salazar wrote. ``He was a great soldier and foremost a father, husband, and friend. I will never forget you, brother, and I will always remember you.'' Janey Medina, SGT Orosco's aunt, also wrote a tribute on a memorial website ``I know in my heart Adrian is in heaven today, watching over all of the rest of the family left behind,'' Ms. Medina wrote. ``I truly grieve and miss him very much. He came to visit me before he left to serve in the war. I felt it was something he truly wanted to do in his life. He was proud of his career in the Army. I loved Adrian. I loved him like a son.''

According to the Associated Press, SGT Orosco, a native of Corcoran, California, played football and was a member of the band. He graduated from Corcoran High School in 1997. SGT Orosco enlisted in the Army in November 2001.

Noe Orosco, SGT Orosco's father, had many fond memories of his son. ``He was always happy, that boy,'' Mr. Orosco said. ``In grade school, he enjoyed assembling model airplanes and rockets.'' Alexander Medina, SGT Orosco's uncle, recounted his nephew's military service. ``He fully understood the circumstances and consequences of everything going on,'' Mr. Medina said. ``He still believed it was the right thing to do.''

SGT Orosco is survived by his father, Noe Orosco; his wife, Elizabeth; his three children, Adrian Orosco, Junior, Andrew Orosco, and Isabelle Orosco; his uncle, Alexander Medina; and his aunt, Janey Medina.

SGT Orosco proudly served America. His service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi Marine Master Sergeant (MSgt) Brian Patrick McAnulty who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 11, 2006, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. MSgt McAnulty was killed when the CH-53 helicopter he was riding in crashed just after takeoff in Anbar province, Iraq. MSgt McAnulty was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, lst Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, California.

MSgt McAnulty grew up in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and graduated from Warren Central High School in 1985. MSgt McAnulty then attended Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi for three semesters before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in April 1988.

A Department of Defense (DoD) news release included details of MSgt McAnulty's personal life and his many professional accomplishments. His first assignment was to Marine Corps Security Force Battalion, Norfolk, VA, for service onboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CV- 67) In 1991, he was assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team (FAST) Company, Norfolk, Virginia. In 1992,

MSgt McAnulty was selected for service with Marine Security Guard Battalion. Later he was assigned to Marine Security Guard detachments in Asuncion, Paraguay, Seoul, Korea, and Budapest, Hungary. In 1996, orders brought him to 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California, for duty with 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines. During that same assignment, he deployed with Battalion Landing Team 2/4 as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit from November 1998 until April 1999.

MSgt McAnulty would further distinguish himself in 2001. When he was reassigned to Marine Security Guard Battalion and trained to serve in the coveted position of detachment commander. MSgt McAnulty commanded Marine Security Guard detachments at U.S embassies in war-torn Bujumbura, Burundi, and in the dangerous city of Bogota, Colombia. After excelling as a detachment commander and being named ``Detachment of the Year'' in South America, MSgt McAnulty was selected to serve as an instructor/advisor at the Marine Security Guard school in Quantico, Virginia from April 2004 to April 2006. Weeks prior to this assignment, during civil unrest in Haiti, MSgt McAnulty's expertise in embassy security and low intensity conflict was needed. He was sent to the U.S. embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to ensure the readiness of the embassy's Marine detachment and provide tactical advice to security personnel.

When MSgt McAnulty returned to the United States, he assumed the duties of instructor at the Marine Security Guard Battalion headquarters in Quantico, VA, where he revamped the weapons training for the Marine Security Guard Battalion and was directly responsible for improving the overall marksmanship capability of Marine Guards. This proved vital to the battalion's role in the Global War on Terrorism. In conjunction with teaching duties, he continued an active security role within the Marine Security Guard Battalion. In December 2004, when terrorists attacked the US Consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, MSgt McAnulty was immediately sent in to provide extra security and provide tactical and personal guidance to the Marines. In March 2006, MSgt McAnulty was transferred to 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division in Twentynine Palms, California, and served as the company Gunnery Sergeant for Weapons Company and later as the Operations Chief. He deployed to Iraq with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines for combat operations in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Brian McAnulty, MSgt McAnulty's brother, described his brother's devotion to service in an Associated Press news article. ``He loved what he was doing,'' Brian said. ``He wouldn't have rather been anywhere else.''

His many awards include the Navy And Marine Corps Commendation Medal (With Gold Star), the Navy And Marine Corps Achievement Medal (With 3 Gold Stars), the Navy Unit Commendation (With Bronze Star), the Navy Meritorious Commendation Medal (With 3 Bronze Stars), the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (With 4 Bronze Stars), the National Defense Service Medal (With 1 Bronze Star), the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (5th Award), the Navy And Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, the Marine Security Guard Ribbon (3rd Award), the Expert Pistol (6th Award), and the Expert Rifle (9th Award).

MSgt McAnulty is survived by his parents, Robert and Frances McAnulty; brother and sister-in-law, Brett and Stacy McAnulty; and his two nieces, Cora McAnulty and Lily McAnulty.

MSgt McAnulty distinguished himself throughout his military career. His service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant

(SSG) Milton Rivera-Vargas who paid the ultimate sacrifice on December 8, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Rivera-Vargas suffered a heart attack and died while on guard duty in Kalsu, Iraq. SSG Rivera-Vargas was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 296th Infantry Regiment, Puerto Rico Army National Guard, Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico.

Minerva Rivera, SSG Rivera-Vargas' niece, paid tribute to her uncle on a memorial website. ``My uncle was the best person around,'' Minerva said. ``He always had a smile on his face. He always protected us in every way. It has been three years since he passed away and there is not a day that passes that I don't think of him or speak of him. I still remember the last day I saw him. The last thing he told us was to pray for him and to not worry about him because he would be home soon. That day never came.''

SSG Rivera-Vargas was laid to rest at Los Robles Memorial park in Cabo Rojo, Cabo Rojo Municipality, Puerto Rico, USA.

SSG Rivera-Vargas proudly served our nation. His service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Specialist (SPC) Terry ``Dantez'' Kishaun Gordon who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 18, 2013, during Operation Enduring Freedom. SPC Gordon was killed when the Black Hawk UH-60 he was riding in crashed in Naw Bahar, Afghanistan. Also killed were Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) Randy L. Billings, Sergeant (SGT) Peter Bohler, Sergeant First Class (SFC) Omar W. Forde, Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) Joshua B. Silverman, and Staff Sergeant (SSG) Jesse L. Williams. SPC Gordon was assigned to 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas.

Following the crash, a statement was issued from Fort Riley. ``We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of these 'Big Red One Soldiers,' '' Major General Paul E. Funk, II, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Commanding General, said. ``We stand ready to support them and I urge our community and the nation, while remembering their sacrifices this holiday season, to do the same.''

According to the Associated Press, SPC Gordon, a Quitman, Mississippi native, graduated from Quitman High School in 2011. While in high school, SPC Gordon served as a member of the high school's U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Michael McDonald, Quitman High School principal, described SPC Gordon as a great young man. ``His leadership and confidence was clearly evident,'' Mr McDonald said. ``He just oozed confidence and he was dependable and well- respected among the students here.'' A Mankato Times article states that SPC Gordon loved helicopters and that he knew early on that he was meant for the Army because he could fly on a Black Hawk.

Miriam Gordon, SPC Gordon's aunt, said he was a happy child who loved his family, friends, and his country. ``Every time you saw him, he had a smile,'' Mrs. Gordon said. ``He always did little pranks and jokes. If you were having a bad day and saw him, you had a great day. He brought the goodness out of people. He was bigger than anything I could ever imagine as far as being a model child. Sometimes they stray, but this child didn't stray.''

SPC Gordon and his fallen comrades were honored on January 9, 2013, during a memorial service held at Fort Riley, Kansas. Nearly 500 people attended the service that was held at the Morris Hill Chapel. Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Matt Weinshel commanded the crew while deployed in Afghanistan. ``Each of these

soldiers knew the risks they assumed,'' LTC Weinshel said. ``They loved their mission and each other. They truly loved flying and told me so on several occasions.'' During the service, speakers told those in attendance that the soldiers were focused on their work, but also smiled and offered hugs to break the tension while preparing helicopters for missions during deployment.

SPC Gordon is survived by his father, Terry W. Gordon; his mother, Sabina R. Edwards; his sister, Terruna Gordon; his stepfather, David Edwards; and his two half-brothers, David Edwards, Jr., and William Edwards.

SPC Gordon proudly serviced America. His sacrifice to protect the freedoms we all enjoy will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Marine Corporal (Cpl) Michael Brandon Presley who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 14, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Cpl Presley died at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany from wounds he sustained on December 12 from a suicide, vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Fallujah, Iraq. Cpl Presley was assigned to 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

According to the Associated Press, Cpl Presley, a Batesville, Mississippi native, was a standout student at North Delta School. Cpl Presley was a lineman for the school's 2000 state football championship team when it won the Class 3A title. John Howell, North Delta School principal, said Cpl Presley kept in touch with his teachers while he was stationed overseas. ``The neat thing that made him stand out for those of us who taught him was the way he made a point to reconnect with us periodically,'' Mr. Howell said. ``Often when you teach, you have to guess at the work that you're doing. Brandon let us know that he appreciated us, and that made him stand out more than other students I have taught.''

The official website of the U.S. Marine Corps included a detailed account of Cpl Presley's service and commitment to the Marine Corps. Cpl Presley joined the Marine Corps on September 22, 2003. He served with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Okinawa, Japan, and subsequently reported to the 2d Combat Engineer Battalion for duty as a motor transport operator in March 2005. Cpl Presley was a skilled operator remembered for his broad smile, love of live, and his devotion to duty. His accomplishments and warrior spirit will forever grace the passage spaces of 2d Marine Division while attached to 1st Battalion, Sixth Marines.

Details of Cpl Presley's bravery were included on a memorial website. The author recounted the details of the day Cpl was mortally wounded. ``Corporal Presley was the vehicle commander for the second Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVA) in the convoy,'' the author wrote. ``As the convoy passed a taxi that had pulled off to the right side of the route, the taxi pulled out and into the path of Cpl Presley's vehicle. When Corporal Presley observed this, he immediately started to initiate escalation of force procedures. Due to the fact that the vehicle was non-responsive, Cpl Presley drew his M16 A4 and was preparing to engage the lone occupant of the taxi. As he did this, the SVBIED initiated its device early, before it had actually impacted the MTVA. This action undoubtedly saved the life of the MTVA driver. Cpl Presley was wounded by shrapnel in the blast and later died from his wounds. Cpl Presley's quick actions saved not only his driver, but also the cargo that they were carrying, the Iraq ballots He valiantly put his fellow Marines and mission accomplishment ahead of his own safety.''

A relative of Cpl Presley recounted the day of his memorial service. ``There were two huge fire ladder trucks parked across from the funeral home. Their ladders were fully extended,'' the relative wrote. ``Draped between them was a huge American flag. As the procession made its way to the church from the funeral home, there were firefighters, local police, state police, sheriffs, active and retired military lining the street and all standing at attention and saluting as the process passed by. It was really amazing to witness.''

Cpl Presley was laid to rest at Magnolia Cemetery in Batesville, Mississippi. Cpl Presley is survived by his mother Pam Cousar; his stepfather, John Cousar; his brother, Colin Hawkins; and his grandparents, Mary Sue Presley, Mary Frances Woods and Mitchell Woods.

Cpl Presley served our nation with courage and bravery. His service and sacrifice to protect the freedoms we all enjoy will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Specialist (SPC) Raphael Saptian Davis who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 2, 2003, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SPC Davis was killed when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device in Tampa, Iraq. SPC Davis was assigned to B Company, 223rd Engineer Battalion, Mississippi Army National Guard, based in Calhoun City, Mississippi.

According to the Associated Press, SPC Davis grew up in the Mississippi Delta. He lived with his mother in Tutwiler, Mississippi. SPC Davis graduated from Tallahatchie High School in Webb, Mississippi in 1998. SPC Davis attended Holmes Community College in Goodman, Mississippi where he was pursuing a degree in engineering. He then attended Hinds Community College in Jackson, Mississippi. Davis joined the Mississippi Army National Guard in 2001. SPC Davis was deployed during his second year of college.

Clifton Bailey, SPC Davis' father, remembers the last time he talked with his son on the phone. ``He called me on November 16th,'' Mr. Bailey said. ``He tracked me down until he found me at work. I never heard him sound so happy. He told me he was coming home. We all assumed he meant Tutwiler, but he knew he was going to his heavenly home. He was calling to say goodbye.'' Betty Davis Pimpton, SPC Davis' mother, said she always worried about her son as any mother would. ``You always hope for the best, never thinking about the worst that can happen,'' Mrs. Pimpton said. ``I was really proud of his service. He enjoyed it and wanted to make a career out of it.

Lakeitha Johnson, a classmate of SPC Davis, paid tribute to him on a memorial website. ``There isn't a day that goes by when I don't think about my classmate and friend, Raphael,'' Lakeitha said. ``I think everyone here agrees that the last two years without him have been tough. Even though his loss has left a huge void in our community, I always think of him and smile. I know that you are in heaven smiling down on us and we love you and miss you so much. We'll see you when we reach that other shore, Raph.''

SPC Davis was the father of three children, Raphael Davis, Junior, Ravin Davis, and Razavier Seon Davis. His youngest child, Razavier Seon Davis, was born four weeks before SPC Davis was killed. Deetra Tucker, mother of Razavier, was also a member of the Mississippi Army National Guard.

A funeral was held for SPC Davis at West Tallahatchie High School in Webb, Mississippi. SPC Davis was laid to rest in the family cemetery located on Sharkey Road in Glendora, Mississippi. SPC Davis' sisters and brothers wrote a special tribute to their brother which was printed in the program for the funeral. It read, ``Ralph, our beautiful brother, there's really no need for words. Your life spoke loud and clear. You were not perfect and that's okay. No human being is. You are still our brother and we love you. There's a lot of press these days about how there are no heroes or great men for our children to look up to. They were wrong. Ralph, you are a hero and we will make sure that all of your nieces and nephews know you were that special hero. We love you.''

SPC Davis is survived by his father, Clifton Bailey; his mother, Betty Davis Pimpton; his girlfriend, Deetra Tucker; the mother of his two oldest children, Kimberlie Blount; his three children, Raphael Davis, Junior, Ravin Davis, and Razavier Seon Davis; his eleven brothers, Cedric Davis, Demarcus Davis, Lamonte Harris, Clifton Davis, Junior, Zavier Bailey, Bernard Berryhill, Taierry Brown, Areail Wallace, Steve Hill, Terrence Steele, and Maurice Steele; his two sisters, Wynde Bailey, and Premmie Stevenson.

SPC Davis will always be remembered for his service and sacrifice to protect America and to preserve the freedoms we all enjoy.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Robert Lee Love, Junior who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 1, 2006, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Love died from injuries he sustained when an improvised explosive device detanated near his vehicle during combat operations in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. SSG Love was assigned to the 16th Engineer Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Glessen, Germany.

According to the Associated Press, SSG Love, a Livingston, Alabama native, graduated from Livingston High School in 1996. Mary Love, SSG Love's mother, said he enlisted in the Army following graduation and served in the military a total of eight years. Prior to deployment, SSG Love lived in Germany with his wife, Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Brianna K. Love. The couple had a three-year-old daughter, Brianna. SSG Robert Love also had an 11-year-old daughter, Tanessa.

The Meridian Star newspaper interviewed members of SSG Love's family. Mary Love said her son was liked by everyone. ``He was a very sweet person who got along with everybody,'' Mary Love said. ``Everybody loved him and he loved everybody.'' Robert Lee Love, Senior, SSG Love's father, said the loss of their son was difficult. ``It has been hard, but we are holding up,'' Mr. Love said.

Graveside services for SSG Love were held on December 20, 2006 at the Pentecostal Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Russell, Mississippi. Elder Keith Tisdale and Bishop Marcell Evins officiated the funeral. SSG Love is survived by his wife, Brianna; his two daughters, Brianna, and Tanessa; his father, Robert L. Love, Senior; his mother, Mary Love; his two sisters, Rickitta Thomas and Evelyn Ford; and two brothers, Reginald Love and Jeremy Love.

SSG Love proudly served America and gave his life to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of U.S. Air Force Captain (Capt) Kermit O. Evans who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on December 3, 2006, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Captain Evans died when the Marine Corps CH-46 helicopter he was riding in made an emergency water landing in western Anbar province. Captain Evans was assigned to the 27th Civil Engineer Squadron, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. He deployed with the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, Balad Air Base, Iraq. He was one of four service members who died in the accident.

According to the Associated Press, Captain Evans, a Hollandale, Mississippi native, was an avid sports fan and athlete who was pleasant and giving. Margaret Evans, Captain Evans' mother, said her son liked taking things apart and putting them back together. ``He also had an inquisitive personality that probably landed him in his military career as an explosives ordnance disposal technician,'' Mrs. Evans said. ``He liked to see how things work.''

Captain Evans graduated from Mississippi State University where he earned a degree in chemical engineering. Captain Evans enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in August 2001. Following graduation, Captain Evans entered officer training school at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama and received his commission as a second lieutenant in November 2001. He was promoted to captain in November 2005. In the second phase of his Air Force career, Captain Evans entered Explosive Ordnance Disposal School at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Following graduation, he was stationed at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. While he was serving at Cannon Air Force Base, his unit earned the Sergeant Stryzak Award as the best EOD flight in Air Combat Command. Captain Evans was the head of the bomb squad at the 27th Civil Engineer Squadron, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. In 2011, Cannon AFB officials honored their fallen comrade. They renamed the street in front of the 27th CE Squadron building as Kermit Evans Avenue.

Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Stephen Wood, 27th Civil Engineer Squadron Commander, said Captain Evans considered the Air Force as a career at a young age. He said Captain Evans had a solid Air Force career as a civil engineer, but wanted to do more, and began exploring bomb disposal. ``That top level stratification was repeated throughout his career,'' Lt Col Wood said.

A funeral service was held for Captain Evans at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada. A memorial service was held at the Simmons High School Gymnatorium in Hollandale, Mississippi. Captain Evans was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia on December 12, 2006.

Captain Evans is survived by his parents, Charles and Margaret Evans; his wife, Perneatha; his son, Kermit Evans, Jr.; and his brother, Kervin Evans.

Captain Evans proudly served our nation. He entered into the military ready to fight for the freedoms we all enjoy. His sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi soldier Army Specialist (SPC) Melvin Lee Henley, Jr. who gave his life while in service to our nation on November 21, 2007, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SPC Henley died at Camp Striker in Baghdad, Iraq of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident. SPC Henley was assigned to the 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia.

SPC Henley, a Jackson, Mississippi native, joined the U.S. Army after graduating from Provine High School in 1999. According to the Associated Press, he was among the top 10 students in his class.

George Watkins, SPC Henley's uncle, said his nephew always wanted to be a soldier. ``He wanted to make a difference in other people's lives,'' Mr. Watkins said. ``He had other relatives who had done the same. His grandfather fought in World War II, so he was following in those footsteps.''

Amber Henley, SPC Henley's wife, said they were married less than two years when her husband was assigned to Fort Stewart. Three months later, SPC Henley received his deployment orders. ``He hated to be away from us,'' Mrs. Henley said. ``We were everything to each other.'' SPC Henley previously served one tour of duty in Iraq from November 2003 to November 2004.

In 2008, seven fallen soldiers were honored at a tree dedication ceremony held at Cotrell Field, Fort Stewart, Georgia. Members of the 92nd Engineer Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division planted an Eastern Redbud tree along Warriors Walk to honor the soldiers who have died fighting in America's global war on terrorism. SPC Henley was one of the soldiers honored at the ceremony.

SPC Henley was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism (Service) Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Overseas Service Ribbon.

SPC Henley is survived by his mother, Maria Marquis; his wife, Amber Henley; and his uncle, George Watkins.

SPC Henley proudly served America and fought to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Army Specialist (SPC) Javier Antonio Villanueva who gave his life while in service to our nation on November 24, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SPC Villanueva died from injuries he sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol during combat operations in Hit, Iraq. SPC Villanueva was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, while serving with the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team from Mississippi.

According to the Associated Press, SPC Villanueva, a Waco, Texas native, graduated in 1998 from La Vega High School. He then attended Texas State Technical College for two years. In 2003, SPC Villanueva married his wife, Felicia Owens, in Temple, Texas. Later that year, he joined the U.S. Army. SPC Villanueva received advanced individual training as a 91W (healthcare specialist) at Fort Sam Houston in Texas. His first duty station was Fort Irwin, California. SPC Villanueva was assigned to Iraq in January 2005 as a combat medic.

Taliyah Villanueva, SPC Villanueva's daughter, posted a tribute to her dad on a memorial website. ``I love you with all my heart,'' Taliyah said. ``I wish you were here right now because I would get to see you every day of my life. Even if you are in heaven, I still can see you, me and my mommy together as a family. We love you.'' Felicia Villanueva, SPC Villanueva's wife, also posted a tribute on the memorial website. ``I can't put into words the pain I feel,'' Mrs. Villanueva said. ``I hurt every day I look at your daughter's face and I see you. I find myself in a daze at times because I daydream of the past and I wonder what we would have been like in the future. I miss you so much, and I will always love you. Until we meet again, continue to guide me in the path of success.''

When former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger learned of SPC Villanueva's death in Iraq, he ordered all state capitol flags to be flown at half-staff. In 2007, President George W. Bush paid tribute to SPC Villanueva's sacrifice during the Fallen Soldier Memorial Ceremony at the American Legion Post and Unit 121 in Waco, Texas.

SPC Villanueva is survived by his parents, Wilfredo Rivera and Christine Lebron; his wife, Felicia Villanueva; and his daughter, Taliyah Ann Villanueva.

SPC Villanueva proudly served America and gave his life so others could be free.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen U.S. Navy Engineman Petty Officer First Class (PO1) Vincent E. Parker, Sr. who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on November 18, 2001, during Operation Enduring Freedom. PO1 Parker drowned aboard Samra, an Iraqi freighter, which capsized in the Persian Gulf. Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Benjamin Johnson also died. PO1 Parker was part of a security team from the USS Peterson (DD969). He was based at Norfolk Naval Station, Virginia.

United States Representative Charles W. ``Chip'' Pickering, Jr. submitted details of PO1 Parker's service into the Congressional Record on Thursday, December 13, 2001. PO1 Parker, a native of Preston, Mississippi, joined the U.S. Navy in 1982 after graduating from Nanih Waiya High School in Louisville, Mississippi. In the document, Rep. Pickering described PO1 Parker as a devout member of the Assembly of God Church in Columbus, Mississippi, and he grew up in a loving, well- respected family with five siblings. PO1 Parker's mission on the day he died was to enforce the United Nations sanctions imposed upon Iraq following the Gulf War. He boarded Samra, a ship believed to be smuggling oil for Saddam Hussein. Rep. Pickering commended PO1 Parker for his lifelong devotion as a son, husband, brother, father, and citizen. Rep. Pickering also said that while serving on board the USS Peterson, PO1 Parker was known not only for his naval leadership, but also for the example he set as a citizen and a man of God.

Stephenie Parker Ybarra, PO1 Parker's niece from Columbus, Mississippi, paid tribute to her uncle in a post on a memorial website. ``Uncle Butch, you were loved by the whole family,'' Stephenie wrote. ``You were one of our family's role models. All the nieces and nephews adored you. I can't tell you how much you are missed, but I can tell you I am extremely proud to have been your niece. Your ultimate sacrifice is only a small reflection of the type of person you were. I can't wait to one day see you and grandpa again and recap on all the stories you have missed. I love you and miss you!'' Another niece of PO1 Parker, Jessica Owen of Amory, posted a tribute on the same memorial website. ``I am so proud of you,'' Jessica wrote. ``You are the bravest man I have ever known, and your courage has reflected upon your family. We are better people because we have loved, and have been loved by you. The sacrifice you made for the family and country you loved will never be forgotten. I carry your memory in my heart every day. Like Steph, I look forward to the day when I can talk to you again and to the day when we can look back at all you have missed and smile together.''

PO1 Parker is survived by his wife, Charlotte Parker; their two children, Vincent Parker and Rachel Parker; his sister Ruth Marie Parker; and his four brothers, Glenn Parker, Andy Parker, Steven Parker, and John Parker.

PO1 Parker proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 19 years. His commitment to protect America will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Sergeant (SGT) Gregory Leroy Tull who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on November 25, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Tull was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near the armored Humvee he was riding in during combat operations in Anbar Province, Iraq. SGT Tull was the gunner on the Humvee. SGT Tull was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 194th Field Artillery, Iowa Army National Guard, Storm Lake, Iowa. At the time of his death, SGT Tull was temporarily assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery, Mississippi Army National Guard.

According to the Associated Press, SGT Tull enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard in 2002 and graduated from Pocahontas Area High School the following year. He then attended South Dakota State University before volunteering for Operation Iraqi Freedom in November 2004.

Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Gregory O. Hapgood, a National Guard spokesman, said SGT Tull was proud of his service. ``He was a very bright young man and he really was a go-to guy in his unit,'' LTC Hapgood said. ``He was a guy who didn't shirk his duty. He wanted to be where it was happening.''

Jeff Tuttle, a high school friend of SGT Tull, paid tribute to him in a post on a memorial website. ``I have been a personal witness to his good deeds for many years,'' Jeff said. ``He had tremendous character and strength and I don't ever remember him getting into any sort of trouble whatsoever. I carry a picture of him in my wallet and will do so for the rest of my life, to be reminded of his bravery for inspiration. He is greatly missed, especially by his parents and brother who handled this hardship with tremendous dignity and class.''

Greg Tull, SGT Tull's father, thanked more than 100 people who posted tributes to his son on a memorial website. ``I want to thank everybody for their support and for having Greg as a friend,'' Mr. Tull said. ``! never knew how many lives Greg touched. He is a very special person and his mom and I miss him every day and every minute of every day. God bless you and pray for the rest of the soldiers killed in action or wounded or still over there fighting to keep us safe. God bless America.''

SGT Tull's funeral was held at Faith Lutheran Church in Pocahontas, Iowa. It was attended by hundreds of people including family, friends, and fellow soldiers. Law enforcement officers from each of the Pocahontas County law enforcement agencies stood watch outside of the church. A sign in front of the church read, ``SGT Greg Tull, The Go-To Guy.'' SGT Tull was buried at the Indian Mound Cemetery, south of Humboldt

SGT Tull is survived by his parents, Gary and Eileen Tull; his brother, Bryan Tull; his grandparents, Bill and Janet Velau and Erland and Phyllis Nelson.

SGT Tull was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Action Badge, and the Mississippi Medal of Valor.

SGT Tull demonstrated courage and bravery while proudly serving our nation. His sacrifice will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi Marine First Lieutenant (1st Lt.) William James Donnelly, IV who gave his life while in service to our nation on November 25, 2010, during Operation Enduring Freedom. 1st Lt. Donnelly was killed while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. This was 1st Lt. Donnelly's first combat deployment. 1st Lt. Donnelly was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California.

According to the Associated Press, 1st Lt. Donnelly, of Picayune, Mississippi, always wanted to join the U.S. Marine Corps. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in June 2003 and served as an Assault Amphibious Vehicle (SSV) crewmember in the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Gulfport, Mississippi. He transferred to the U.S. Navy Reserve as a Midshipman to attend the officer training program at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in King's Point, New York where he served as a Midshipman Regimental Commander. 1st Lt. Donnelly was commissioned as a 2ndLt in the United States Marine Corps after graduating in June 2008 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering. After TBS, he was designated an infantry officer in October 2009 and served as a rifle platoon commander assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Kilo Company, 2nd Platoon, Camp Pendleton, California. 1st Lt. Donnelly married his wife, Linsey, on September 11, 2010. He deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan 15 days later.

1st Lt. Donnelly's family learned of his death on Thanksgiving Day 2010. Melissa Donnelly-Weed, 1st Lt. Donnelly's sister, posted on her Facebook page that day. ``Always be thankful for family,'' Melissa said. ``I will always be thankful and grateful I had a wonderful brother. He gave his life today for his country doing what he loved-- being a Marine. I will miss him forever. I love you, Will!'' William J. Donnelly, III, 1st Lt. Donnelly's father, said his son would not have any regrets even though the loss is extremely hard to bear. ``Will was doing what he loved to do and what he always wanted to do,'' Mr. Donnelly said. ``I am sure if we could talk to him now, he would say he had no regrets.''

In a release issued by Camp Pendleton, officials said that they had lost a member of their own family. ``The Marines and sailors of the 1st Marine Division mourn the loss of 1st Lt. Donnelly,'' the release read. ``Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family.''

After learning of 1st Lt. Donnelly's death, Picayune Mayor Ed Pinero said it is always hard to lose a hero and on behalf of the city, they extended their heartfelt condolences to the family. ``1st Lt. Donnelly's sacrifice and that of all the men and women who fall in combat protecting our country's freedom should never be forgotten,'' Mayor Pinero said. Additionally, Mayor Pinero announced that 1st Lt. Donnelly's name would be inscribed on a monument in front of the old city hall in Picayune to ensure the town's war heroes are never forgotten.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, December 14 at the United States Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, Maryland. Internment was held at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Friends of 1st Lt. Donnelly held a memorial service in Picayune at the same hour of the service at Arlington.

1st Lt. Donnelly is survived by his parents, William Donnelly, III and Vicki Donnelly; his two sisters, Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Melissa Donnelly-Weed and Rebecca Donnelly; his wife, Linsey Becker- Donnelly; and his nephew Christian Weed.

1st Lt. Donnelly was awarded the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.

1st Lt. Donnelly's service and sacrifice to defend America will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Colonel (COL) William David Barton's thirty-one years of service in the Mississippi Army National Guard (MSARNG). COL Barton began his military career on August 13, 1986, when he enlisted as a Cannon Crewman in Service Battery, 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery in his hometown of Kosciusko, Mississippi. He later received his commission through the ROTC program at the University of Mississippi, where he graduated with a degree in marketing in 1990.

COL Barton has served the MSARNG in staff positions at the battalion, brigade and state staff levels, and held command positions at the platoon, company and battalion levels. In 2005, he was deployed to Iraq with the 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) where he first served as Brigade Personnel Officer for the 155th BCT, and then served as the Battalion Operations Officer for 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery. He has held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel since February 1, 2015.

His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Commendation Medal (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Achievement Medal (with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (with one Silver and three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the National Defense Service Medal (with one Star), the Iraq Campaign Medal (with two Campaign Stars), the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with Gold Hourglass, M Device, and Numeral 2), the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Action Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the National Guard Basic Recruiter Badge, the Mississippi Magnolia Cross (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Magnolia Medal (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Commendation Medal, the Mississippi War Medal (with one Star), the Mississippi Emergency Service Medal, the Mississippi Service School Ribbon (with one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Longevity Medal (with one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), and the Mississippi Recruiting Medal.

When asked about his years in the MSARNG, COL Barton said, ``I have been blessed to serve with some of the finest people in the world over the last 31 years. It has been an amazing experience and I am glad to have been able to serve my country and my state in both peacetime and during war. The service members I have served with truly embody the National Guard motto of `Always Ready, Always There' and I could not be more proud of my service alongside them.''

Throughout his career and in preparation for his upcoming retirement, Colonel Barton has been supported by his loving family, including his parents, Gerald and Peggy Barton; his four sisters; his wife, Jennifer Barton; and his four daughters, Brittany Burnham, Ashley Smith, Kelly Barton and Hannah Kelly.

I am thankful for Colonel Barton's many years of military service, and I am proud to call him my friend. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.