[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 180 (Monday, November 28, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S7904]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES
Corporal Zachary Reiff
Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, since the Senate last convened, I have
learned of the loss of a brave Iowan who was defending freedom
overseas. Marine Corporal Zachary Reiff was wounded during combat
operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan and later succumbed to his
wounds. This news has hit the close knit community of Preston, IA very
hard. My prayers go out to all who knew Zach, particularly his parents
Marcia and Matt, as well as his brother Kolby and his sister Emily. By
all accounts, he was active in school, having played football,
wrestled, and ran track as well as participating in school plays. As
such, there was certainly no shortage of people in the community with
memories to share. It is also evident that Zach is well thought of
judging by the outpouring of good will following the news that he had
been wounded. Zach is described as a caring person. Certainly, the
beaming smile in many pictures posted on a Facebook prayer page in his
honor makes even those who didn't know him wish that they had.
Friends say that Zach was proud to serve his country and liked his
work. Zach Reiff is one of those special Americans who throughout our
history have not hesitated to put their life on the line for the Stars
and Stripes and everything it stands for. Our country is truly blessed
to have patriots such as Zach Reiff. We owe him more than we can
express and we have an obligation to remember him and his sacrifices in
the name of liberty.
____________________