[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 77 (Wednesday, June 12, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1020]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               PAYING TRIBUTE TO DANIEL AARON ROMERO ---

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, June 11, 2002--

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker it is with a solemn heart but also great 
pride that I honor the life and memory of Daniel Aaron Romero. Known to 
his family as Aaron, this young man responded to his country's call for 
help and gave his life for its security. On the seventeenth of March, 
Aaron was killed in Afghanistan while involved in an ordinance disposal 
operation. Like many young men and women today, Aaron believed that our 
nation needs her citizens to stand up and fight for our ideals and 
values, and like Aaron, several will have to pay the ultimate price. 
Aaron knew the risks, but believed in our cause, and today he reminds 
all Americans of the courage and selflessness that allows us the 
freedoms we cherish today. I can think of no better way to honor Aaron 
then to recognize his achievements and service before this body of 
Congress and this nation today.
  Aaron was born in Longmont, Colorado and grew up in the town of 
Lafayette. In 1991, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of joining the 
military. He joined the Army and attended basic, advanced, individual, 
and eventually, airborne training. He excelled in his role as a 
soldier, and through hard work and dedication, he joined the 
prestigious ranks of the Special Forces. He was an esteemed member of B 
Company of the 5th battalion 19th Special Forces Group of the Colorado 
Army National Guard, and served as the valuable Communications Chief 
for his unit.
  As member of the U.S. Army, Aaron traveled the world frequently in 
defense of his country, and after long periods of separation from his 
family, he was assigned the National Guard Post in Pueblo. He enjoyed 
spending time with his family and will be remembered as a wonderful 
person.
  Mr. Speaker, Aaron's dedication to excellence is reflected in his 
decorations which include the Army Service Ribbon, the Non-Commissioned 
Officers Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Colorado 
Emergency Service Ribbon, the parachute badge, and the Special Forces 
tab. His dedication to this nation, his bravery, and his courage, serve 
as an example to us all. In the wake of the tragedies of 9/11, Aaron's 
passing is just one more reminder of the price that we pay for freedom. 
Mr. Speaker it is my profound honor to bring such a man to the 
attention of this body of Congress and a grateful nation. Thank you 
Aaron, for all that you gave in defense of your state and your nation. 
As his family mourns his loss, I would like to extend my deepest 
sympathies.

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