[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 119 (Thursday, September 19, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE OF JASON JACKSON-HAMPTON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 19, 2002

  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Jason 
Jackson-Hampton, a remarkable young man who gave his life on September 
5, 2002, while serving with the Almaville, Tennessee, Volunteer Fire 
Department. He was just 17 years old. Jason touched the hearts of his 
fellow firefighters when he joined the department as an Explorer. Chief 
Greg Capps recalled that his young volunteer's positive attitude and 
ready smile were an inspiration to all who knew him.
  Jason graduated from Smyrna High School last May. Through his 
dedication, hard work and natural leadership abilities, he attained the 
rank of second lieutenant in the school's ROTC Program and planned to 
join the U.S. Army.
  He loved McDonald's double cheeseburgers and fries, perks he enjoyed 
at the fast-food restaurant where he worked.
  Firefighters from every municipal and volunteer fire department in 
Rutherford County, Nashville, Watertown, Fairview and Brentwood 
attended the memorial service. During the funeral procession, children 
and adults saluted as his casket, carried atop a fire engine, passed 
by.
  During his inaugural speech, President John F. Kennedy inspired 
Americans to, ``Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you 
can do for your country.'' Jason Jackson Hampton's life was a portrait 
of service and dedication to his family, friends, co-workers and 
Nation.

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