[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 79 (Friday, June 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1050]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO SERGEANT AARON J. BLASJO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 3, 2011

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a hero from my 
congressional district, United States Army Special Forces Sergeant 
Aaron J. Blasjo. Today I ask that the House of Representatives to join 
me to honor and remember this incredible young man who died in service 
to his country.
  Aaron was born in Riverside, California and graduated from Ramona 
High School in 2004. He was determined to be in the Special Forces and 
after graduation he promptly enlisted in the United States Army. Aaron 
was assigned to A Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group, 
Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His most recent deployment was his third 
tour in Afghanistan, where he served in the Special Forces canine unit. 
About Aaron, his grandfather, Wesley Blasjo, stated, ``I think he 
wanted to do something for his country. He liked the camaraderie and 
all the things that go along with Special Forces.''
  Aaron was a member of the Palm Baptist Church and traveled to Africa 
on a short missionary trip to help others. A youth pastor at the church 
remembers Aaron as serious but caring member of their church community.
  In 2009, he married Crystal Thompkins in Riverside. Two months ago, 
Aaron became a proud father to his son, Talon Blasjo, which was one of 
the highlights of Aaron's life. On May 29, 2011, the day before 
Memorial Day, Aaron was killed in action in Wardak Province, 
Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was 25 years 
old. In addition to his wife Crystal and son Talon, he also leaves 
behind his mother and father Daniel and Roberta Blasjo; and his 
extended family.
  As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country we 
realize that this history is comprised of men, just like Aaron, who 
bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Each story is 
unique and humbling for those of us who, far from the dangers they have 
faced, live our lives in relative comfort and ease. The day they 
learned of Aaron's death was probably the hardest day the Blasjo family 
has ever faced and my thoughts, prayers and deepest gratitude for their 
sacrifice go out to them. There are no words that can relieve their 
pain, and what words I offer only begin to convey my deep respect and 
highest appreciation.
  Sergeant Blasjo's wife, son and parents have all given a part of 
themselves with the loss of Aaron, and I hope they know that their 
husband, father, and son, the goodness he brought to this world and the 
sacrifice he has made, will always be remembered.

                          ____________________