[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 52 (Wednesday, April 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E581-E582]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PAYING TRIBUTE TO SPC. JUSTIN REDIFER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 21, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise and pay tribute to 
an outstanding patriot from my home state of Colorado. Army Specialist 
Justin Redifer recently returned from serving our nation in Operation 
Iraqi Freedom, and in recognition of his actions, was awarded a Bronze 
Star with a distinction for valor. This incredible honor is a testament 
to Justin's courage and bravery, and I would like to take this 
opportunity to recognize him before this body of Congress and this 
nation today.

[[Page E582]]

   A soldier in the 244th Engineer Battalion, Justin's responsibility 
in Iraq was to seek out and establish temporary operating bases for 
American forces. This dangerous task often put Justin's detachment, 
based in Grand Junction, Colorado, in harms way. A few months ago 
Justin's unit was involved in one harrowing firefight in the City of 
Samarra where a group of armed insurgents in a car headed straight for 
our troops. As the insurgent's vehicle passed Justin's position, he 
shot out the back window before the car careened into an area where the 
unit was able to effectively contain the situation.
   Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise and recognize the actions of 
Specialist Justin Redifer for his service to our nation. Receiving the 
Bronze Star is a testament to the bravery and courage Justin displayed 
while in Iraq. His selfless sacrifice to his country serves as a model 
for all Americans who desire to serve their country in this war against 
terror. Many young men and women like Justin are now serving their 
nation, without regard to personal safety, to ensure the people of Iraq 
can have the same freedoms we enjoy. On behalf of my fellow Coloradans 
and Americans, I wish to thank Justin for his bravery and noble 
service.

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