[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 72 (Thursday, May 26, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1109-E1110]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE OF SERGEANT JACOB SIMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DARLENE HOOLEY

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 26, 2005

  Ms. HOOLEY. Mr. Speaker, let us recognize the life and praise the 
sacrifice of an American Hero.
  Just a few days ago, Sergeant Jacob Simpson was killed in action 
during a reconnaissance patrol in Iraq.
  Jacob died as he lived--helping the people of Tikrit in their efforts 
to secure a peace, and realize their aspirations for a democratic 
society. Oregon mourns his passing. As a society we have too few of his 
character; we will all feel his loss for years to come.

[[Page E1110]]

  Jacob was an exceptional young man who possessed a kind heart, an 
inquisitive mind, and a dedication to family and friends that was as 
uncommon as it was devout. After completing his general education 
studies, Jacob entered the United States Army to build a new life for 
himself. Sergeant Simpson was a proud, dedicated soldier; he was a team 
player, always willing to volunteer for an extra job, a hard 
assignment--but he was so much more.
  He was a patriot--an earnest young man who believed citizenship meant 
responsibility. Jacob Simpson accepted the duty of being an American as 
freely as he did its freedoms. True to his nature, Sergeant Simpson 
used his time in uniform to adjust his focus, investigate his academic 
interests--to develop a plan for rest of his life. Jacob planned on 
attending college after his discharge.
  But Jacob will never again enjoy the winds of the Columbia Gorge, the 
view of Mount Ashland, or the sounds of his guitar. He returned to Iraq 
for a second tour of duty well aware of the challenges, the risks, and 
dangers. He gave his last full measure of devotion keeping faith with 
his charge.
  Jacob Simpson never faltered, never wavered, and never failed--he 
understood his duties and sacrificed everything he had, and everything 
he never would have, for the ideals of liberty. His courage is a lesson 
for us all.
  In his brief twenty-four years, Jacob Simpson made a difference in 
the lives of thousands. With hope, determination, and uncommon valor--
Jacob helped blaze the trail for a new generation of lraqi's to have 
the right to choose a new destiny.
  It is now up to us left behind, here--to ensure the life and death of 
Jacob Simpson is remembered--to keep its promise. Let us recommit 
ourselves to the tasks at hand. We must never forget.

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