[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 81 (Wednesday, June 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1242]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF SGT JOSE M. VELEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSE E. SERRANO

                               of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2006

  Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Sgt. 
Jose M. Velez, a brave young man who made the ultimate sacrifice 
serving in Iraq.
  Sgt. Velez grew up in East Harlem and made the Bronx his home. In 
2004, he enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces in order to serve and 
protect the country he loved so dearly.
  Sgt. Velez was assigned to the 773rd Transportation Company, based in 
Fort Totten, Queens. Unfortunately, on June 9, 2006, he met an untimely 
death as he was killed in the line of fire only one month after 
touching down in Iraq.
  A truck driver by profession, Sgt. Velez was described by those who 
knew him best as honorable, kind, intelligent and fearless. He leaves 
behind two children, Melody and Christopher Velez. May they read these 
words that I speak today and be proud of the tremendous sacrifice their 
father made for his country.
  The death of Sgt. Velez once again reminds us of the great cost of 
war. As I speak before you today, 2,500 American troops have given 
their lives in this war, which has no end in sight. Like so many other 
children, Melody and Christopher have lost a father and like so many 
other parents, Mr. and Mrs. Velez have lost a son. And, sadly, with the 
falling of another soldier, America has lost more of its potential to 
become an even greater Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, Sgt. Velez has inspired me with his courage and 
conviction. Learning of his valor in the face of adversity has further 
motivated me to push relentlessly for peace.
  As we mourn the life of this brave soldier, let us remember the 
sacrifices of all our service members and work to ensure that their 
heroic deeds are never forgotten.
  For his heroism and service to his country, I ask my colleagues to 
join me in mourning the loss of Sgt. Jose M. Velez.




                          ____________________