[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 56 (Tuesday, May 3, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H2750]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page H2750]]
              IN HONOR OF PRIVATE FIRST CLASS STEVEN SIRKO

  (Ms. FOXX asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, it is with the heaviest heart that I rise 
today to express the heartfelt condolences of a grateful Nation and to 
honor the life of Private First Class Steven Frederick Sirko, who 
passed away on April 17 while serving in Iraq.
  Steven served our country as a U.S. Army battalion medic. He was 
scheduled to return to his home in Statesville, North Carolina, in 
August. Steven was a loving husband, son, and brother. He leaves behind 
his wife, Virginia Downs Sirko; his mother, Summer Lipford; and 
stepfather, Steven Lipford; his father, Rick Sirko; and stepmother, 
Rose Sirko; his sisters; and his brother.
  May good bless them and comfort them during this very difficult time. 
We owe this brave soldier and his family a tremendous debt of gratitude 
for his selfless service and sacrifice. Our Nation could not maintain 
its freedom and security without heroes like Steven who make the 
ultimate sacrifice.
  Americans, as well as Iraqis, owe their liberty to Steven and his 
comrades who came before him. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring 
PFC Steven Sirko.

                          ____________________