[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 104 (Wednesday, July 27, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1611]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN MEMORY OF SPECIALIST MICHAEL R. HAYES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 26, 2005

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor U.S. Army Specialist 
Michael R. Hayes, an American hero who lost his life in defense of 
liberty and freedom. He made the ultimate sacrifice so that others 
might know freedom, and I am humbled by his bravery and selflessness.
  Spc. Michael Hayes was killed on June 14, 2005 when a rocket-
propelled grenade hit his Humvee while he and four other Marines were 
providing security around a suspected explosive device near Baghdad. He 
was 29 years old. Spc. Hayes was assigned to the 617th Military Police 
Company, Kentucky Army National Guard at Richmond, KY. In addition to 
his family, fiancee and country, Spc. Hayes loved soccer. He founded 
the girls' soccer program at Butler County High School of Kentucky six 
years ago and was a devoted coach. He took this love from the soccer 
fields to the streets of Iraq where he took particular pride in seeing 
the children attend their newly built or refurbished schools. He wrote 
often of the Iraqi children and how their smiles brought him comfort. 
His leadership, dedication and enthusiasm will be missed.
  He is survived by his mother, Barkley Hayes, fiancee, Melissa Allen, 
sister, Spc. Melissa Stewart, and brother, Spc. James Hayes, both of 
whom serve in the 617th Military Police Company.
  I want to thank his family for raising such a fine man. As the father 
of two sons, I know their sacrifice is indescribable. Spc. Hayes leaves 
behind a legacy marked by courage, integrity and character. It is an 
honor and a privilege to represent his family in Congress. May God 
bless them, and may I convey to them the many thanks of a grateful 
Nation.

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