[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 35 (Wednesday, March 9, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S1497]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES
Specialist Joshua R. Campbell
Mr. BENNET. Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today
to honor the life and heroic service of SPC Joshua R. Campbell.
Specialist Campbell, assigned to the 546th Transportation Company,
based in Fort Bragg, NC, died on January 29, 2011, of injuries
sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his
vehicle. Specialist Campbell was serving in support of Operation
Enduring Freedom in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He was 22 years old.
A native of Bennett, CO, Specialist Campbell enlisted in the Army in
2008. He served a tour of duty in Afghanistan, during which his
commanders recognized his extraordinary bravery and talent. Specialist
Campbell's decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal, the
National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service
Medal, and the NATO Medal.
During his 2 years of service, Specialist Campbell distinguished
himself through his courage, dedication to duty, and absolute
commitment to his fellow soldiers. Fellow soldiers remember him as a
consummate professional with an unending commitment to excellence. They
remember his generous character and positive disposition.
Specialist Campbell's family remembers him as a dedicated son,
husband, and father. They also remember him as someone always willing
to reach out and help others.
Mark Twain once said, ``The fear of death follows from the fear of
life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.''
Specialist Campbell's service was in keeping with this sentiment--by
selflessly putting country first, he lived life to the fullest. He
lived with a sense of the highest honorable purpose.
At substantial personal risk, he braved the chaos of combat zones
throughout Afghanistan. And though his fate on the battlefield was
uncertain, he pushed forward, protecting America's citizens, her
safety, and the freedoms we hold dear. For his service and the lives he
touched, Specialist Campbell will forever be remembered as one of our
country's bravest.
To Specialist Campbell's entire family--I cannot imagine the sorrow
you must be feeling. I hope that, in time, the pain of your loss will
be eased by your pride in Joshua's service and by your knowledge that
his country will never forget him. We are humbled by his service and
his sacrifice.
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