[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 175 (Monday, December 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2477]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO SERGEANT RYAN C. YOUNG

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a hero from my 
congressional district. Last week I was informed that Sgt. Ryan C. 
Young of my hometown of Corona, California passed away due to 
complications from injuries sustained while fighting in Fallujah, Iraq 
on November 8, 2003. Today I would ask that the House of 
Representatives honor and remember this incredible young man who died 
in service to his country.
  Ryan was born on June 29, 1982, in Orange, California. After 
graduating from Norco High School in 2000, he enlisted in the Army. He 
was assigned to A Company, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st 
Infantry Division, based in Fort Riley, Kansas as an infantryman and 
was deployed to Iraq in September.
  On November 8, 2003, while riding in an armored vehicle with other 
U.S. troops, his vehicle was hit by an explosive device. Ryan was sent 
to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland but later 
passed away from complications from his injuries on December 2, 2003. 
He was 21 years old and leaves behind a wife, mother and father.
  As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country we 
realize that this history is comprised of men, just like Ryan, who 
bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Each story is 
unique and humbling for those of us who, far from the dangers they have 
faced, live our lives in relative comfort and ease. My thoughts, 
prayers and deepest gratitude for their sacrifice go out to his wife 
and family. There are no words that can relieve their pain. Ryan was 
awarded the Purple Heart and will be laid to rest at the Riverside 
National Cemetery where he will be close to home and those who love 
him.
  His wife and family have all given a part of themselves in the loss 
of their loved one and I hope they know that their son and the 
sacrifice he has made will not be forgotten.

                          ____________________