[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 38 (Thursday, March 30, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E474]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO A FALLEN SOLDIER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 30, 2006

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to a fallen 
soldier from the Ninth Congressional District of Florida. Army Sergeant 
Michael D. Rowe, from New Port Richey, Florida, was killed by a 
roadside bomb in Rutbah, Iraq. His death came just before his 24th 
birthday.
  Michael's decision to join the military demonstrates his dedication 
and service to this nation. Following high school, our young people 
have many opportunities and wide open doors to pursue their dreams. 
Michael chose the path of the Army because he believed that it was his 
honor and duty to serve his nation and protect our freedom. In fact, he 
had told his mother that the Army would be his career and had re-
enlisted for another four years of service shortly before he died. He 
did not choose this path because he thought that he would one day 
become a war hero or that this career would provide him a lucrative and 
extravagant life.
  I know it has been a very hard and difficult time for Michael's 
family and friends, especially since Michael's wife, Rebecca, is 
expecting their first child in July. I hope they know that the nation 
thanks him for his service and we appreciate the sacrifices they had to 
make for us as well.
  Let freedom ring where all can hear it and let Sergeant Michael 
Rowe's memory be eternal.

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