[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 62 (Thursday, May 6, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E772]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO STAFF SERGEANT STACEY CRAIG BRANDON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 6, 2004

  Mr. BERRY. Mr. Speaker, to die for one's country, while tragic, is 
the ultimate honor. To die for the freedom of others may not carry with 
it an adequate expression to illustrate the debt it generates. Today, I 
rise to honor Staff Sergeant Stacey Brandon who was killed during his 
tour of duty in Taji, Iraq. He was 35 years-old.
  Staff Sergeant Brandon joined the National Guard in 1990 and when he 
was called to active duty for ``Iraqi Freedom'' on October 12, 2003, he 
answered the call and served his country with honor. His ability, 
intelligence and dedication quickly earned him a promotion to the rank 
of Staff Sergeant in February 2004.
  Despite his notable dedication to his country, he was a husband and a 
father first. A son, a brother, a friend, an athlete and a light of 
optimism others were drawn to always. Along with the many lives he 
touched, Staff Sergeant Brandon carried God in his heart. He was a 
passionate singer of gospel music and he and his wife, April, joined 
the Hazen First Baptist Church upon their move to Hazen, Arkansas.
  We can ask nothing greater from a human being than to anonymously 
fight to the end to help people they may have never met. Unfortunately 
for those left behind, this soldier has a name. He has the respect of 
those whose lives he touched, and, now, grieving family and friends who 
I offer my deepest sympathies and utmost respect.
  Staff Sergeant Brandon will be remembered for his honor, his mettle, 
his bravery and his commitment to his family, his God and his country. 
On behalf of the Congress, I extend the utmost respect for a fine 
American, a loving father, husband and son, and the perfect model of a 
patriot.

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