[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 108 (Wednesday, September 6, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1632]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO CAPT. CHRISTOPHER PATE OF BEAVERTON, OREGON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 6, 2006

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
an American soldier who gave his life in service to our Nation.
  U.S. Marine Captain Christopher Pate of Beaverton, Oregon was killed 
in action during operations in Iraq. Captain Pate is survived by his 
parents, Jerry and Kathy Pate of Lady Lake, Florida, and a fiancee, 
Margaret Stearns.
  While on patrol in Iraq, Captain Pate's patrol was struck by an 
improvised explosive device, ripping through his unit. Using his dying 
words to radio for medical assistance, Captain Pate's bravery and 
actions most likely saved the lives of two other soldiers severely 
wounded in the attack.
  Joining the Marines in 1999, Chris Pate achieved the rank of Captain 
in July, 2004. Stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, he was 
assigned to the 2nd Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, 2nd Marine 
Expeditionary Force. Serving in Okinawa, Korea, Thailand, South America 
and Yemen, Captain Pate eventually volunteered for two tours in Iraq.
  A modern day renaissance man, Captain Pate will be remembered for his 
love of languages, his sense of adventure and a desire for knowledge. 
Having paddeled up the Amazon, spent time in a monastary, studied 
esoteric Eastern religions, and learned Spanish, German and Arabic, he 
was well on his way to achieving his dreams. Scheduled to return from 
Iraq in November, Captain Pate and his finacee were planning their 
wedding ceremony and anticipating a move to Washington, D.C.
  Mr. Speaker, it is soldiers like Captain Pate who have volunteered to 
protect the freedoms that all Americans hold dear. While brave men and 
women like Chris have perished in the name of freedom and liberty, his 
family, friends and loved ones should know that this Congress will 
never forget his sacrifice and commitment.

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