[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 4, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E22]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO A FALLEN SOLDIER

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                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 4, 2005

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to a fallen 
soldier from the Ninth Congressional District of Florida. Lance 
Corporal James Phillips, from Plant City, Florida, was shot and killed 
as Marines were clearing houses in Fallujah, Iraq on December 23, 2004.
  James' decision to join the Marines demonstrates his dedication and 
service to this Nation. Following high school, our young people have 
many opportunities and wide open doors to pursue their dreams. James 
chose the path of the Marines because he believed that it was his honor 
and duty to serve his Nation and protect our freedom. He did not choose 
this path because he thought that he would one day become a war hero or 
that this career would provide him a lucrative and extravagant life.
  I know it has been a very hard and difficult time for James' family 
and friends, especially to lose him so close to the Christmas holidays. 
I hope they know that the Nation thanks him for his service and we 
appreciate the sacrifices they had to make for us as well.
  Let freedom ring where all can hear it and let Lance Corporal James 
Phillip's memory be eternal.




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