[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 59 (Wednesday, April 22, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E938]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN RECOGNITION OF THE PASSING OF SPECIALIST MICHAEL J. ANAYA, UNITED 
                              STATES ARMY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 22, 2009

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of 
Specialist Michael J. Anaya, United States Army. Specialist Anaya gave 
his life in defense of our Nation and was killed in action on April 12, 
2009 in Bayji, Iraq. Specialist Anaya was serving with the 2nd 
Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 
25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
  Nick-named the ``Anayalator'' by his Army buddies, Michael loved the 
Army and wanted to serve in the Infantry. His military skills were 
obvious to everyone, as he was awarded the Expert Infantryman's Badge 
along with other military awards. He loved the military and his 
country. He also loved his family, friends, and fishing. He was a fine 
young American--an example of the greatness of our Nation.
  Michael was buried with full military honors and will go to his 
eternal rest as an American hero. We remember this patriot--this fine 
soldier--and thank him for making the ultimate sacrifice for the United 
States of America. I am always reminded of the greatness of our country 
when I meet military families like the Anaya's who supported Michael as 
he volunteered to defend America.
  The people of Crestview, Northwest Florida, and our Nation have many 
reasons to be proud of Specialist Anaya. Vicki and I will keep 
Michael's entire family, especially his parents, Carmelo Sr. and Cheryl 
Anaya of Crestview, his brother Carmelo Jr., and his sister, Trista, in 
our thoughts and prayers. I hope all the people of Northwest Florida 
and our nation do the same. May God bless Specialist Michael Anaya and 
all of those who serve in our armed forces and defend our Nation around 
the globe.

                          ____________________