[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 168 (Tuesday, November 10, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S11339]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING NEBRASKA'S ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

  Mr. JOHANNS. Madam President, I rise today to salute the 313th 
Medical Company of Nebraska Army National Guard on its upcoming and 
second deployment to Iraq. The 313th Medical Company is about to embark 
on an important mission, and I want its members to know how thankful I 
am for their service and how proud I am of their professionalism and 
dedication.
  Thanks to the sacrifices made by the 313th during previous 
deployments and those of so many other servicemen and women, 29 million 
Iraqis are free, Iraq is the most democratic country in the Arab world, 
and Iraq has become an ally in the war on terror. As conditions 
continue to improve in Iraq, with Iraqi armed forces and police taking 
the lead on security, the need for our presence in Iraq is diminishing. 
However, we must be vigilant in successfully completing the transition. 
Medical support from the 313th will be vital to ensuring our 
achievements in Iraq are lasting.
  Members of the 313th are some of the best-trained and prepared 
soldiers in our Nation's history. Some of them have already been 
deployed one or more times and their experience will undoubtedly be 
invaluable to mission success. The equipment they use is the best in 
world. But, ultimately, their individual patriotism and dedication has 
made and continues to make the difference in Iraq.
  I also thank the families of the 313th. They will also endure 
hardships in the name of freedom and security. Their support will 
undoubtedly enable the unit to focus on the mission. The Department of 
Defense and many private organizations have established programs to 
assist families while their loved ones are fighting overseas. My staff 
and I stand ready to assist them if they need help accessing these 
resources.
  The thoughts and prayers of all Nebraskans and of grateful citizens 
across this great Nation go with the 313th. I could not be more proud 
of them, and look forward to seeing them all back in a year. May God 
bless the 313th, and protect them and their families as they answer the 
country's call to duty.

                          ____________________