[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 154 (Friday, November 18, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2405]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE 278TH REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM OF THE TENNESSEE NATIONAL 
                                 GUARD

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 18, 2005

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, few words sound as good as ``welcome 
home.''
  This is especially true for our men and women in uniform returning 
from the Middle East where they've been battling terrorism.
  In Tennessee we're celebrating the return of our State's 278th 
Regimental Combat Team. We couldn't be prouder of them, and we want 
them to know how grateful we are.
  Their service and dedication should inspire us all. They placed 
others above themselves. They fought not to conquer but to free. They 
fought to put right a terrible evil in this world. They fought so that 
others might know hope and freedom.
  And they fought so that future generations of Americans would not 
have to live with the terror that we know all too well.
  Their deeds placed them among the elite few in American history--in 
world history.
  As Tennesseans, we know the separation has been rough and the days 
have seemed longer with them so far from us.
  Their return has answered our prayers and we're so glad to have them 
back where they belong.
  We are proud of the brave and noble thing they have done for us, and 
for our country. And we can't thank them enough. We will never forget 
those 10 among them who aren't returning, those 10 who made the 
ultimate sacrifice. They will live on in the freedom they've helped 
preserve. Their families and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.
  From a grateful, grateful Nation we salute them, and we salute their 
families.
  God Bless America and our 278th.

                          ____________________