[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 78 (Wednesday, May 20, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING FAMILIES OF FALLEN SOLDIERS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 20, 2009

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
honor all the families who have lost a loved one in defense of our 
great Nation and in particular, those gathered at Calvary Baptist 
Church in Lakeland, Florida. For over 225 years, the United States has 
been a beacon of hope and freedom throughout the world. That freedom 
comes at a price, however. Whether it is the original fight for 
independence during the American Revolution, the drive to defeat 
communism during the cold war, or the current battle in the Middle 
East, soldiers throughout our history have fought and given their lives 
to keep us safe here at home. I salute their sacrifice, the sacrifice 
of their families, and dedication to their fellow man.
  Our Nation has often had to defend itself from enemies, both foreign 
and domestic. Throughout these struggles, it has been our shared faith 
in our Lord that has given us the strength to soldier on during tough 
and trying times. America has seen both the good and the bad throughout 
our Nation's history, but in the end I firmly believe that each of us 
will heed the call to show our commitment to God when forced to make 
decisions that affect our fellow man.
  To those who will gather at Calvary Baptist Church to honor our 
``True American Heroes,'' know this Congress thanks you and honors you. 
As Ronnie and Aileen Payne wrote to me, ``Our sons and daughters were 
more than just a name and a casualty number. They were the best that 
America had to offer. They ran in when others ran out. They answered 
when America called.''
  America is the greatest Nation in the world. We have a proud history 
of service, faith and community ties that bind us to the common belief 
in the goodness of mankind. Our collective faith in God surpasses the 
fear and uncertainty we may feel from time to time. By working and 
praying together we can ensure that future generations of Americans 
will share the morals and values that brought us here today. Thank you 
and God bless the United States of America.

                          ____________________