[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 25, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E229-E230]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO ARKANSAS TROOPS AT FT. POLK, LA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 25, 2004

  Mr. BERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my deep appreciation for 
the contributions of Arkansas National Guardsmen currently training at 
Ft. Polk Louisiana preparing for deployment to Iraq and their families 
who await their safe return.
  Recently, I had the opportunity to visit these fine men and women and 
witness their training. Designed to mimic what the troops will face in 
the field, their exercises are impressive in scope and in our troops' 
ability to accomplish the monumental tasks regularly laid before them.
  More impressive than the accomplishments, however, were dedicated 
Arkansans; far from home and preparing to go farther. They did not 
complain about living in tents, carrying heavy gear or the long days of 
hard training. And when this country called them to service, they did 
not hesitate.
  As they prepare for their mission, it is imperative we consider more 
than their coming task,

[[Page E230]]

we must remember who they are. They are fathers, mothers, sons and 
daughters who will soon be in harm's way. In Arkansas--and elsewhere--
they have families who love them and communities that will miss them.
  We cannot thank these brave men and women enough for their sacrifice. 
We can only salute their commitment and do what we can to support them 
when they return. On behalf of Congress, I extend our deepest gratitude 
to our men and women in uniform.

                          ____________________