[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 154 (Friday, November 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     STATEMENT ON THE LOSS OF LANCE CORPORAL NICKOLAS D. SCHIAVONI

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 18, 2005

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that I rise to 
recognize the death of LCpl Nickolas D. Schiavoni--a brave Marine who 
served with dignity and honor in Iraq. I join his family and the people 
of Rhode Island in mourning this great loss.
  On Tuesday, November 15, Lance Corporal Schiavoni was killed by a 
suicide bomber near Karmah, Iraq, while conducting combat operations 
with his unit. He served with the 2nd Battalion, Second Marine 
Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, out of 
Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Lance Corporal Schiavoni, age 26, was 
raised in Haverhill, Massachusetts; his mother, Stephany Kern, resides 
in Westerly, Rhode Island. This was Lance Corporal Schiavoni's second 
tour of duty in Iraq. He joined the Marines after meeting his wife, 
Gina Howe Schiavoni, who now lives with their two children, Marissa, 5, 
and Alex, 3, in North Carolina.
  Lance Corporal Schiavoni's service as a Marine demonstrates his 
commitment to our nation's freedom. He was awarded a Purple Heart 
during his first tour of duty and died supporting a fellow member of 
his unit in an investigation of a suspicious vehicle. The humility, 
dedication and courage that helped him to flourish in the service are 
also visible in his life at home--those who knew him well highlight the 
deep reverence he held for his wife and family.
  His loss causes us to reflect on the bravery demonstrated by our men 
and women in uniform as they carry out their obligations in the face of 
danger. When their nation called them to duty to preserve freedom, 
liberty and the security of their neighbors, they answered without 
hesitation. We remember those who have fallen not only as soldiers, 
sailors, airmen and marines, but also as patriots who made the ultimate 
sacrifice for their country. May we keep their loved ones in our 
thoughts and prayers as they struggle to endure this difficult period 
and mourn the heroes America has lost.
  We will continue to hope for the safe and speedy return of all of our 
troops serving throughout the world.

                          ____________________