[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 108 (Friday, July 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1831-E1832]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF THE HONORABLE PETE GEREN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JANE HARMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 17, 2009

  Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
distinguished service of our former colleague Pete Geren as he steps 
down as Secretary of the Army.
  Secretary Geren, a quiet and thoughtful leader, fulfilled the duties 
of his office with superb competence and compassion. Of his many 
achievements, his initiative to combat military sexual trauma deserves 
particular recognition. Secretary Geren called the epidemic of rape and 
sexual assault within the ranks of the Army ``fratricide.'' He viewed 
its elimination as of equal consequence to the challenge of racially 
integrating the armed forces.
  Last year, Secretary Geren launched the I. A.M. Strong campaign, a 
five-year program designed to eradicate rape and sexual assault in the 
Army. Secretary Geren was unwavering in his efforts to tackle this 
important issue. As he explained, ``we're the United States Army and we 
live our values.''

[[Page E1832]]

  Prior to joining the Defense Department, Secretary Geren represented 
Texas' 12th District for four terms. During that time, we worked 
together on the Armed Services committee, where he served with 
distinction. He also served on the Science & Technology and the Public 
Works & Transportation Committees.
  Secretary Geren's strength of character and visionary leadership has 
resulted in a better Army and a safer nation. I thank him for his 
extraordinary service to country, and look forward to applauding 
whatever new and exciting chapter he now begins.

                          ____________________