[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 27, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E658-E659]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE LIFE OF LAKE CHARLES NATIVE JEFFREY PARKER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHRISTOPHER JOHN

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 27, 2004

  Mr. JOHN. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, April 9, 2004, my district suffered 
the loss of a brave American. KBR Contractor Jeffrey Parker of Moss 
Bluff, LA, was killed in an attack on a fuel convoy while working as a 
truck driver in Iraq. Jeff was one of seven contractors and two U.S. 
soldiers reported missing in the attack.
  As he is laid to rest in Louisiana, we honor his commitment to his 
family, his work, and his country. As his company noted, these 
contractors that lost their lives were ``brave hearts without medals, 
humanitarians without parades, and heroes without statues.''
  Neighbors described him as a ``friend to everyone.'' Jeff was one of 
nine children in the Parker family. He was a father and a grandfather. 
He was to be married this summer after his work in Iraq was completed.
  He took the job with KBR in Iraq to provide for his loved ones. He 
served his country in a vital support role and he tackled his job with 
courage, conviction, and bravery. He will be remembered as a hero whose 
spirit and determination defines the American spirit.

[[Page E659]]

  To his family, I humbly extend my thanks and the sincere appreciation 
of a grateful community, State, and country for his sacrifice. On 
behalf of the people of the 7th Congressional District and the U.S. 
Congress, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the Parker family.

                          ____________________