[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 96 (Thursday, June 26, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8713-S8714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING PRIVATE FIRST CLASS MICHAEL DEUEL

  Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I am saddened to report the passing of 
Private First Class Michael Deuel of Nemo, SD. Pfc. Deuel was killed on 
June 18, 2003, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  Michael moved from his home in Cheyenne, WY to attend school at 
Boxelder Job Corps in South Dakota in May 2000. His friends and 
teachers described him as an unassuming, yet confident student. Focused 
and hard working, Michael was determined to perform well in school. He 
received his general education diploma and certification from the 
culinary arts program shortly before enlisting in the Army. Following 
service in the military, he dreamed of becoming a chef and owning his 
own restaurant.
  After enlisting in the Army, Michael entered airborne school to 
become an Airborne Ranger. He went on to Army Ranger School and became 
a member of the Army's 325th infantry regiment of the 82nd Airborne 
Division, which is based in Fort Bragg, NC.

[[Page S8714]]

  On February 13, 2003, he was deployed to Iraq. While protecting a 
propane-distribution center in Baghdad, he was killed by enemy fire.
  The lives of countless people were enormously enhanced by Michael's 
goodwill and service. Although he did not live to see his dreams 
realized, he continued to inspire all those who knew him. Our Nation 
and South Dakota are far better places because of his life, and the 
best way to honor his life is to emulate his commitment to our country.
  I join with all South Dakotans in expressing my sympathies to the 
family of Private First Class Deuel. I know he will always be missed, 
but his service to our Nation will never be forgotten.

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