[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 113 (Wednesday, September 13, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1713-E1714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               THE LOSS OF LANCE CORPORAL ERIC VALDEPENAS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 13, 2006

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that I rise to 
recognize the loss of a brave Marine in Iraq, Lance Corporal Eric 
Valdepenas, who served his country with dignity and honor. I join his 
family and the people of Rhode Island and Massachusetts in mourning 
this great loss.
  Lance Corporal Valdepenas, a resident of Seekonk, Massachusetts, was 
a graduate of Bishop Hendricken High School in Warwick, Rhode Island, 
my own alma mater. He was an honors student and co-captain of the 
school's championship lacrosse team. He is remembered by his teachers 
and classmates as having tremendous energy and an exceptional 
character. After high school, he attended the University of 
Massachusetts at Amherst and was pursuing an engineering degree when 
his Marine Reserve unit was called up in December 2005.
  Lance Corporal Valdepenas served with the 1st Battalion, 25th Marine 
Regiment, 4th Marine Division. He demonstrated the same commitment and 
positive attitude in Iraq that his family and friends knew well, and he 
earned numerous military awards, including the Purple Heart. On 
September 4, while on patrol in al Anbar province, an improvised 
explosive device detonated next to his vehicle, killing him and two 
other Marines.
  This 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 Lance Corporal Valdepenas's nation called him to duty, he 
answered without hesitation. We will remember him as a patriot who made 
the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
  He is survived by his parents, Jesus and Ann-Marie, and seven 
siblings Marie Drury, Karen Ing, Nora Lough, and Teresa, Edna-Anne, 
Neil, and Sean Valdepenas. They will remember his great love for his 
family, his loyalty and his kindness. May we keep them and other 
friends and family in our thoughts and prayers as they endure this 
difficult period. We will also continue to hope for the safe and speedy 
return of all of our troops serving throughout the world.

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