[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 31 (Wednesday, February 26, 2003)]
[House]
[Page H1357]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING AIR FORCE STAFF SERGEANT STEPHEN M. ACHEY

  (Mr. BROWN of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, each day we ask the members 
of our armed services to perform their jobs with bravery and courage. 
Air Force Staff Sergeant Stephen M. Achey of Summerville, South 
Carolina is a shining example of an airman who rose above and beyond 
the call of duty.
  Sergeant Achey, a command and control specialist with the 20th Air 
Operations Support Squadron, earned a Silver Star for his heroism in 
Afghanistan last March.
  While surviving a mortar round explosion and crippled with a disabled 
radio, Sergeant Achey endured heavy enemy fire while coordinating and 
directing an air strike that saved the lives of many American soldiers. 
Pinned down for 18 hours, he managed to divert American aircraft, 
saving them from destruction and sparing many lives. He also provided 
cover fire for the rescue of all wounded soldiers.
  This man exhibited the virtues of a true Lowcountry hero. If it were 
not for the courageous actions of Sergeant Achey, many of his comrades 
may not have survived and returned home. His gallantry is truly amazing 
and I am proud that he calls the First District of South Carolina his 
home.

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