[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 65 (Thursday, April 30, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S4961]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        41ST BRIGADE DEPLOYMENT

 Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, today I wish to show my appreciation 
for the dedication and commitment of the Oregon National Guard. They 
are the best that Oregon has to offer. The best our Nation has to 
offer. I am honored, this weekend, to personally see off the largest 
Oregon guard deployment since World War II.
  Right now, 2,700 citizen soldiers from across my State are gearing up 
for a 10-month deployment to Iraq, and I am positive that their actions 
will bring honor to the United States and to the great State of Oregon.
  Despite progress, Iraq remains a dangerous place. But our National 
Guard soldiers are well-trained, well-led and well-equipped. I know 
they will do their best to complete their missions and return to their 
families. I also know that our Nation has done its best to give them 
the tools they need to do so safely and expediently.
  I have been fortunate enough to meet with many of Oregon's citizen 
soldiers more than once--first in the dust and heat of southern Idaho 
last summer then in their armories in the days leading up to training 
at Camp Roberts. I made a promise to see them off when they are 
deployed and I intend to be there to welcome all of them home after 
their courageous service is complete.
  These are uncertain times--not only in the United States but around 
the world. It is a world that is once again turning its eyes toward 
America for leadership and inspiration. Now, more than ever, it is time 
for America to be strong for those in need.
  The Oregon National Guard is the face of that strength. Our men and 
women in uniform are this country's greatest representatives to the 
world. While being strong, we must also demonstrate our values through 
compassion, justice, and integrity.
  I realize these soldiers have a difficult road ahead, which will 
involve both professional and personal struggles. Whether this is their 
first deployment or their fourth, their dedication and commitment will 
be tested on a daily basis--but, courage and determination are their 
hallmarks.
  Members of the Oregon National Guard are exactly the kind of soldiers 
that our Founding Fathers believed could best defend this Nation--
volunteer citizen soldiers with roots in the community and a patriotic 
spirit.
  I salute Oregon's great band of citizen soldiers. May God bless them 
and see each and every one of them home safe.

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