[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 61 (Thursday, April 26, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E671]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING MASTER SERGEANT JEFFREY J. RIECK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE STIVERS

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 26, 2012

  Mr. STIVERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of a grateful nation 
to celebrate the life of Ohio Army National Guard MSG Jeffrey J. 
Rieck--a true American hero who lost his life on April 4, 2012, while 
deployed to Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. An Ohioan and 
fellow soldier from Columbus, Ohio, he recently joined the countless 
number of fearless warriors who have given the final measure of 
devotion in defense of our great nation.
  Master Sergeant Rieck, 46, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and served a 
25-year career with the military that began in May 1987. Among the 
medals awarded for his heroism are a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, 
which are just the beginning to the honors owed to him.
  A dedicated and loving father, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and 
friend, Master Sergeant Rieck will be remembered as a true hero who 
dedicated every aspect of his life to his family, loved ones, and 
country--a man who served with true pride and grace. I feel absolutely 
privileged that I had the opportunity to serve with Master Sergeant 
Rieck in the Ohio Army National Guard.
  George Orwell is known to have said, ``We sleep soundly in our beds 
because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those 
who would do us harm.'' Master Sergeant Rieck highlighted this quote as 
one of his favorites, and no better quote could be referenced to 
describe the soldier we lost a few weeks ago.
  As I pray for the family and friends of Master Sergeant Jeffrey 
Rieck, I ask that all Members of Congress join me in offering our 
eternal appreciation for his life and sacrifice. He went to the 
furthest and greatest extent in order to secure our freedom here at 
home, and that must never be forgotten.

                          ____________________