[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 71 (Wednesday, May 19, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E918]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 COMMENDING THE PEACEKEEPING EFFORTS OF THE TROOPS FROM EL SALVADOR IN 
                                  IRAQ

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 19, 2004

  Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
commend the brave troops from El Salvador who are participating in the 
peacekeeping operations in Iraq. Their bravery, honor, competence and 
professionalism are playing a critical role in the creation of a free 
and democratic Iraq.
  The Salvadoran peacekeepers have been doing remarkable work 
delivering humanitarian relief and reconstruction assistance in Iraq. 
These peacekeepers have provided supplies, electricity, books, and 
playground equipment to impoverished schools as well as delivering aid 
to local farmers. However, Iraq remains a dangerous place for those who 
are contributing to the liberation of Iraq. The hazards of this 
important task were apparent on April 4, 2004 when the Salvadoran 
soldiers encountered armed resistance around Najif.
  On April 4, 17 Salvadoran troops bravely stood their ground in the 
face of overwhelming opposition from the armed followers of Sheik 
Muqtada al-Sadr. In the face of mounting injuries and certain defeat, 
at one point fighting when 12 of the 17 were wounded and one had died, 
the Salvadoran soldiers never stopped fighting. Fortunately, a relief 
unit arrived to join the fight and rescue the Salvadoran troops.
  The brave deeds of these valiant few will be remembered by all. Mr. 
Phil Kosnett, who leads the Coalition Provisional Authority in Najiv, 
described the Salvadoran troops as ``the bravest and most professional 
troops I've ever worked with.''
  Tragically, PVT Natividad Mendez perished on the field of battle. He 
will always be in our hearts and prayers.
  Mr. Speaker, it is imperative that we recognize the enormous efforts 
of every nation and every troop serving in Iraq. The world has arrived 
at a momentous turning point. If Iraq can become a stable democracy the 
world will have changed for the better. El Salvador and the Salvadoran 
troops in Iraq recognize the importance of this moment and are acting 
to ensure that Iraq is transformed from a terrorist state into a free 
and democratic nation. They will always have our profound gratitude.

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