[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 82 (Monday, June 20, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1291]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF SERGEANT ROBERTO ARIZOLA, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 20, 2005

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life and service of 
Sergeant Roberto Arizola Jr., who died serving his country as part of 
Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  Sgt. Arizola died on June 8th, 2005 in Baghdad when an improvised 
explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 
Army's 297th Military Intelligence Battalion, 513th Military 
Intelligence Brigade, of Fort Gordon, Georgia. Roberto was awarded the 
Army Achievement Medal in 2000 for his extraordinary performance in 
operations ``Joint Endeavor'' and ``Joint Guard'' in Bosnia-
Herzegovina.
  A superb soldier, Sgt. Arizola was an even better friend, husband, 
and father. Roberto was kind and loving, possessing a charismatic 
personality that brought joy to those lucky enough to share in his 
company.
  Sgt. Arizola died a soldier, defending the lives of those unable to 
defend themselves. The father of a seven-year-old son, he died so that 
other families and other children might live. He gave up a safe life in 
a free country so that others might grow up in safety and freedom.
  Sergeant Roberto Arizola gave his life to protect ordinary people 
from those who would do them harm. He leaves behind him an example of 
extraordinary service and courage. He died a hero, and he deserves the 
thanks of a grateful nation.

                          ____________________