[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 7, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO GENERAL ERIC K. SHINSEKI, 34TH CHIEF OF STAFF OF THE UNITED 
                              STATES ARMY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN M. McHUGH

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 7, 2003

  Mr. McHUGH. Mr. Speaker, Congressman Chet Edwards and I take this 
opportunity today to honor General Eric K. Shinseki, the 34th Chief of 
Staff of the United States Army. As co-chairs of the House Army Caucus, 
Congressman Edwards and I have had the privilege of working with 
General Shinseki as he advanced and shaped the greatest land force in 
the history of the world--the United States Army.
  After more than 35 years service to the nation, General Shinseki will 
retire from the United States Army in June. Throughout his career, 
General Shinseki's actions have epitomized those of a soldier, leader, 
and consummate professional. Always mission-focused and soldier-
centered, he upheld the Army's non-negotiable mission contract with the 
American people to fight and win the nation's wars, while never 
forgetting that it is the sacrifice and skill of the American soldier 
that makes those victories possible.
  General Eric K. Shinseki began his Army career after graduating from 
the United States Military Academy in 1965. He served two combat tours 
in the Republic of Vietnam. Despite receiving severe injuries while 
serving in Vietnam, General Shinseki went back into battle. Although he 
could have left the Army for other pursuits, General Shinseki remained 
on active duty out of his utmost respect for the young American soldier 
he encountered in Vietnam. General Shinseki excelled in command and 
staff assignments both in the continental United States and overseas. 
He commanded the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas, became 
Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans at Headquarters 
Department of the Army, served as the Commanding General, United States 
Army Europe, Commander Allied Land Forces Central Europe; and 
Commander, NATO Stabilization Force in Bosnia-Herzegovina. In 1998, he 
assumed the duties as the 28th Vice Chief of Staff of the United States 
Army.
  On June 22, 1999, General Shinseki became the Chief of Staff of the 
United States Army. Since assuming that position, General Shinseki's 
commitment and leadership have contributed immeasurably to ensuring 
that America's Army is unmatched by any in our history in its skill and 
professionalism. Understanding the challenges posed by the 21st 
Century, General Shinseki began a transformation that will 
fundamentally reform the Army and position it for continuing excellence 
and achievement in the coming decades. Even while guiding the Army 
through this profound change, his leadership shaped this proud 
service's contributions and successes in the Global War on Terrorism, 
in Operation Noble Eagle--the defense of the American Homeland, in 
Operation Enduring Freedom--the attack on Al Qaeda's lair, and 
Operation Iraqi Freedom--the liberation of Iraq. He has melded one 
Army--active, National Guard and Reserve. Indeed, General Shinseki has 
successfully guided these monumental efforts and today leaves the Army, 
and the men and women who serve in it, in the very highest state of 
combat readiness.
  Mr. Speaker, the freedoms we cherish come at a price. Our nation has 
been fortunate to have men and women willing to come forward at times 
of crisis and challenge to pay that price. Among that number must be 
counted General Eric K. Shinseki. Through the sacrifices and dedication 
of Americans like him, our nation is able to continue upon the path of 
democracy and to strive for the betterment of mankind across the globe. 
It is with profound admiration and deep appreciation that we pay 
tribute to General Shinseki for all that he has done for the United 
States Army and this country. On behalf of a grateful nation, we thank 
General Eric K. Shinseki, the 34th Chief of Staff of the United States 
Army.

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