[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 30 (Monday, March 14, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E441]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO ARKANSAS' 39TH INFANTRY BRIGADE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 14, 2005

  Mr. BERRY. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today on behalf of 
Congress to thank Arkansas' 39th Infantry Brigade for their service in 
Iraq and to welcome them home.
  A Over the last year, the men and women of the 39th have worked to 
make a positive difference in the lives of the Iraqi people. They have 
faced their duties bravely, performed honorably and made a difference 
in the development of an emerging country.
  Many years ago, the 39th chose to be represented by a Bowie knife 
laid over a diamond on their patch. The knife serves both as a tribute 
to The Bowie State and as a symbol of their aggressive spirit, while 
the diamond symbolizes the only diamond field in North America located 
in Arkansas.
  There is no doubt the 39th has lived up to the badge it proudly 
bares. Forceful and strong is why Iraq is better today than it was in 
April of 2004 when our brave men and women first pulled into Camp Taji. 
Forceful and strong is how they did their job in the most hostile 
environment, every day, for a year. Forceful and strong is why their 
families can wrap their arms around them now and welcome them home.
  The efforts of the 39th have resulted in reconstructed Iraqi schools, 
hospitals, irrigation and sewage systems, and new recreational projects 
for children. The footprint they left in the Iraqi sand is far deeper 
than their boot size; and the sacrifice made by too many not coming 
home will never be forgotten.
  We must take a moment, as we celebrate the return of our loved ones, 
to think of those less fortunate. Those who gave their lives defending 
strangers to ensure peace have made the noblest of sacrifices. They 
will be missed by their families and friends and honored by their 
country. We pray every day for those who loved them and thank them all 
for what they've left us with.
  On behalf of the Congress, I thank all the members of the 39th 
Infantry Brigade for the immeasurable contributions they have made to 
peace, democracy and the Iraqi people. Their bravery and courage stand 
as a shining example of American ability and our debt to them can never 
fully be repaid.

                          ____________________