[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 102 (Tuesday, July 10, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S4815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                      Sergeant James Skalberg, Jr.

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to SGT James 
Skalberg, Jr., who made the ultimate sacrifice on June 27, in Wardak 
Province, Afghanistan. James was driving his vehicle when an improvised 
explosive device detonated, injuring him fatally. My thoughts and 
prayers go out to his wife, Jessica, his son, Carter, his parents, 
James and Kelli, and all his other family and friends who are grieving 
his loss.
  Sergeant Skalberg grew up an athlete. He graduated from Nishna Valley 
High School in Hastings, IA in 2005, and enlisted in the Army in 2007. 
James deployed to Iraq with his unit in 2008 through 2009 and deployed 
again to Afghanistan in 2011. His awards and decorations include the 
Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army 
Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, 
Driver's Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Combat Action Badge.
  James is remembered by his family as having been loved by everyone 
for being a gentleman in every respect. He was remembered by teachers 
and coaches as a star player and caring student. He was carefree, easy 
going, reliable, levelheaded, and loving. He was a family man who loved 
his wife since they met as teenagers in high school, and his son, 
Carter, whom he hoped to one day teach to play basketball.
  James was the kind of man we can be proud to call a native son of 
Iowa. He stood as an example to others in his actions and his 
character. We owe SGT James Skalberg, and others like him, our most 
sincere gratitude and appreciation for their willingness to make the 
ultimate sacrifice for our great country. I call on my colleagues in 
the Senate and every American to pay tribute to this brave American.

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