[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 127 (Monday, November 13, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2008]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO SERGEANT MICHAEL R. WEIDEMANN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 13, 2006

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that I rise to 
recognize the loss of a brave soldier in Iraq, SGT Michael R. 
Weidemann, a resident of Newport who served his country with dignity 
and honor. I join his family and the people of Rhode Island in mourning 
this great loss.
  Sergeant Weidemann was born in Canada and moved to Middletown, RI, 
with his family when he was 7. In 2001, he graduated from Rogers High 
School, where he attended the Newport Area Career and Technical Center 
and participated in the automotive program. He was also an honor 
student and an active member of the JROTC program.
  One month after graduating from high school, Sergeant Weidemann 
pursued his interests by enlisting in the Army as an auto mechanic and 
joined the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment of the 1st Brigade, 
1st Armored Division. After serving one tour in Iraq, Sergeant 
Weidemann was nearing the end of his second tour when, on October 31st, 
he was killed while on patrol near Hit, in Anbar Province.
  Those that knew Sergeant Weidemann remember his optimistic 
personality, his loyalty, his hard work and willingness to fix 
everything. Most importantly, he had a positive impact on all who knew 
him. This loss certainly causes us all 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 Sergeant Weidemann's Nation 
called him to duty to preserve freedom, liberty and security, he 
answered without hesitation. We will remember him as a patriot who made 
the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
  Sergeant Weidemann is survived by his grandmother, Gertrude K.C. 
Miller; his sister, Catharine E. Weidemann; and his brothers, Richard 
L. Weidemann and Edward R. and Benjamin J. Berriault. May we keep his 
loved ones in our thoughts and prayers as they endure this difficult 
period, and may his memory live on forever.
  We will also continue to hope for the safe and speedy return of all 
of our troops serving throughout the world.

                          ____________________