[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 128 (Wednesday, September 23, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 THE 424TH MEDICAL LOGISTICS BATTALION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM SAXTON

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 23, 1998

  Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate and pay tribute to 
the men and women of the 424th Medical Logistics Battalion 
headquartered at Pedricktown, New Jersey. In particular, I wish to 
salute the 14 soldiers who are returning home from an eight month 
deployment to Bosnia. On October 4th, 1998, the 424th Medical Logistics 
Battalion will welcome home these 14 members in a celebration at the 
424th Reserve Center in Pedricktown, New Jersey.
  The detachment, commanded by Captain Linda Estacio, deployed last 
September and was stationed at the Blue Factory near the town of Tuzla, 
Bosnia. The detachment was responsible for all of the medical supplies, 
blood products, and medical equipment repair for all of the American 
forces and some multinational units in the northern section of Bosnia, 
a responsibility that cannot be overestimated nor underappreciated.
  Today, U.S. servicemen and women continue to serve in Bosnia in an 
effort to again secure peace in Europe. These dedicated individuals, 
who have served so honorably, have the difficult task of fulfilling the 
commitments made by American foreign-policy makers. The members of the 
424th represent the steadfast dedication and honorable service that 
continue to make our nation proud of our Armed Forces.
  I wish to commend these soldiers, Cpt Linda Estacio, 1LT Carmen 
Bellthomas, SFC Frank Newhart, SFC John Vangeyten, SFC Richard 
Czeponis, SGT William White, SGT Ronnie Simons, SGT Bruce Phillips, SGT 
David Lewis, SPC Ronald Meixsell, SPC Kenneth Johnson, SPC Pamela 
Jones, SPC Michael Mills and SPC Derrick Sterling, for they are the 
inspiration for those who serve our country today.

                          ____________________