[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 57 (Wednesday, May 8, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E746-E747]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 EXPRESSING REGRET AND SYMPATHY FOR FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS WHO 
                LOST THEIR LIVES IN SOUTHERN AFGHANISTAN

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. CASS BALLENGER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 7, 2002

  Mr. BALLENGER. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 412 and 
offer my sincerest condolences to the families and friends of the four 
Canadian soldiers who gave their last full measure of devotion in the 
defense of liberty during Operation Enduring Freedom last month. Eight 
of their comrades also were wounded in the same tragic incident. They, 
along with the rest of Canada, are now left to mourn the loss of their 
fellow patriots.
  The tragic event of April 17 should remind all of us that war is 
dangerous. Service men and women often risk their lives each and every 
day, so that we may enjoy our freedom and security. These brave 
Canadians have made the ultimate sacrifice for Canada and for freedom 
throughout the world. Today, I pray for their families and loved ones.
  Canada is not only our neighbor, it has been our closest friend and 
ally. Soon after the terrorist attacks on September 11, Canadian 
families selflessly opened their homes to American travelers who were 
stranded in Canada when American airspace was closed. Since then, 
Canada has stood, shoulder to shoulder, with its American ally to face 
the forces of evil in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Despite this tragic 
accident, Canada and the United States will continue to stand together 
and fight our mutual enemies until they are vanquished and peace 
prevails.
  Canada, we grieve with you today for your fallen heroes. Their 
dedication and steadfastness in the face of danger should be a source 
of pride and comfort. With soldiers like these, I have no doubt that 
the days of the terrorist are limited and that victory will be ours.
  I want to commend my friend and colleague from New York, Mr. 
Houghton, for this resolution. I urge my colleagues to stand with our

[[Page E747]]

Canadian neighbors and support passage of the resolution.

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