[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 154 (Friday, September 26, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S9642]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO ROGER STONE

 Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, when the Texas A&M sailboat Cynthia 
Woods capsized off the coast of Texas, Safety Officer Roger Stone was 
trapped below deck with two other men. It was a frightening event, 
which would have put anyone into a panic. But Stone, thinking of his 
crewmates before himself, pushed Steven Guy and Travis Wright out of 
the upturned sinking boat's cabin, saving their lives. He did not have 
time to escape. Roger Stone was a heroic Aggie.
  The remaining crew was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard 26 hours 
later. Only after Steven Guy and Travis Wright retold the story did 
Roger Stone's family find out what happened. While the pain of losing a 
loved one is tremendous, the Stone family should find some comfort in 
Roger's courageous and selfless acts. His brave sacrifice is a lasting 
testament to his great character and personal strength.
  Roger was originally from London, England, but came to Texas to work 
at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He had been 
sailing his entire life. Roger and his wife Linda were engaged on a 
sailboat and were married in the port--Veracruz--that the Cynthia Woods 
was bound for. Throughout Roger's career he was always serving others, 
from teaching younger sailors to helping competitors. In addition to 
his wife Linda Stone, Roger was survived by his daughter Elizabeth 
Stone, son Eric Stone, mother Doris Stone, and sister Valerie Stone.
  These heroic actions are something we all can admire. At the age of 
53 Roger gave his life to save the lives of others. This ultimate 
sacrifice is embodied in chapter 15, verse 13 of the Book of John, 
``Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his 
friends.'' This courageous deed leaves a lasting legacy for his wife 
and his children.
  While Roger's friends and family will mourn his loss, the people of 
Texas will honor with solemn pride his heroism. I join today in 
commending his courage, and honoring his sacrifice.

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