[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 5 (Monday, January 26, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                   STAFF SERGEANT KENNETH HENDRICKSON

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I am saddened to report the 
passing of SSG Kenneth Hendrickson of Bismark, ND. Kenneth was killed 
on January 24, 2004, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  Kenneth, who was called up for active duty last spring, was scheduled 
to leave Iraq in March. He was one of two North Dakota Army National 
Guardsmen killed by a roadside bomb while traveling near Fallujah. 
Kenneth was a member of the Bismarck-based 957th Multi-Role Bridge 
Company and a 15-year veteran of the National Guard.
  Kenneth, a computer technician for Bismarck public schools, was 
married just 4 days before being deployed. Born in Fargo, Kenneth lived 
with his family in Bismarck. His father Lyle Hendrickson lives in Rapid 
City, SD and is a Pennington County commissioner. Kenneth is described 
by family members as a free spirit who loved children and knew how to 
have fun. Even while in Iraq, his number one concern was his family 
back home.
  Kenneth and his fellow National Guard members are playing a vital 
role in Iraq. These brave men and women have taken time away from their 
family, friends, and jobs to serve their country thousands of miles 
from home. Kenneth and many other National Guard members have given the 
ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom. Our country owes them a 
tremendous debt of gratitude for their service.
  The lives of countless people were enormously enhanced by Kenneth's 
goodwill and service. He inspired all those who knew him. Our Nation is 
a far better place because of his life. The best way to honor him is to 
emulate his commitment to our country.
  I express my sympathies to the family of Kenneth Hendrickson. I know 
he will always be missed, but his service to our Nation will never be 
forgotten.

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