[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 27 (Friday, February 17, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING SERVICE MEMBERS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF DENHAM

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 17, 2012

  Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, it is to the honor of our service members 
that when they wear the uniform, they do so with the full knowledge 
that their engagement for our Nation will take them on long, sometimes 
dangerous missions far from home. Each one is conscious of these 
dangers but chooses to confront them in the defense of our values. As a 
veteran I understand that this choice to serve is not just personal, it 
is shared with their families who must also accept the risks, the 
absences and in the ultimate circumstance--the loss of the one they 
love. It is to you the families that I now turn my thoughts to express 
with humility, my gratitude and respect.
  It is fitting that the symbol chosen to mark this shared sacrifice is 
a Gold Star--fitting because we do not remember simply to mourn but 
rather to hold high the example of their courage, their willing 
abnegation. A star, fixed always in the firmament of heroes that we 
have been blessed to know.
  Outside my office door, unique to the halls of Congress is a flag 
displaying one such star. It stands in tribute to the son of a staff 
member of mine who gave the fullest proof of his love for our Nation. 
That flag reminds me of my duty as a Congressman to ensure that those 
who fight for our country and their families receive the support and 
care that they earned through their service.
  As the original author of the California Gold Star License Plate 
Bill, these families have a very special place in my heart and I am 
humbled to continue my support and commitment in their premium 
sacrifice being recognized.
  Allow me once again to express my respect and fervent prayer that the 
strength we witness in you affirms in each of us the courage to serve 
our country in all ways we are able.

                          ____________________