[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 50 (Thursday, March 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E611-E612]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        TRIBUTE TO MEMBERS OF OUR ARMED FORCES SERVING OVERSEAS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. CASS BALLENGER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 27, 2003

  Mr. BALLENGER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to the 
members of our armed forces serving overseas, but I do not wish to use 
words of my own. I want to use those of my constituent, Miss Lisa 
Seviers. Miss Seviers is only ten years old, but her words are of an 
understanding far greater than her age. Miss Seviers wrote a poem which 
I would like to share with you now:

                        ``These Troubled Times''

     In this time of 2003, a troubled year ahead we see,
     But lose no confidence for we are strong, bounded by our
     Nation's thoughts of liberty, justice and freedom for all.
     We are the ones who will stand tall,
     When and if the economy falls.
     We will not lose hope--we will hope even more.
     Stand at the thought we are free,
     No matter what happens in other countries.
     We will stand strong, we will not give in.
     For the people of our land, we sent soldiers out to fight.
     So fearless, bold and courageous.
     They are being sent to a new land,
     Yet they show not signs of being afraid.
     We will pray to God to keep them safe.
     If he will, we will praise the Lord.
     If they don't come back safe, most will say
     ``Why did you take my loved one away?''
     The answer hides on a coin: ``In God We Trust''

[[Page E612]]

     Your answer is--we trust in God to keep them safe
     For God is wise, and what you say is--
     ``The best way to die is dying free.''

  I want to thank Miss Seviers for sending me her poem. I want to join 
with her and express my faith in our troops and my hope for their safe 
and speedy return.

                          ____________________