[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 124 (Friday, September 14, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1540]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA'S RED BULLS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TOM LATHAM

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 14, 2012

  Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate 
the Iowa National Guard's own Red Bulls for being awarded the Citizen 
Patriot Unit Award by the U.S. Department of Defense. The Citizen 
Patriot Award for Distinguished Service is a prestigious award that is 
given annually to only one individual and one military unit across the 
entire Department of Defense.
   The Iowa National Guard's Red Bulls, formally known as the 2nd 
Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, set themselves above the 
rest through their substantial contributions to the security and 
defense of the nation while serving in Afghanistan in support of 
Operation Enduring Freedom. The Red Bulls have a storied history as 
some of the most dependable soldiers in the Army, and the Citizen 
Patriot Award truly reflects the nation's gratitude for what they have 
accomplished together.
   In July 2010, the Red Bulls' unit departed Iowa in one of the 
largest single deployments since World War II. After arriving in 
Afghanistan in November of that year, Task Force Red Bulls conducted 
comprehensive counter insurgency operations and also partnered with the 
Afghan National Security Forces. These men achieved the mission goals 
they were assigned at the highest possible standard amidst the painful 
loss of four servicemembers who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their 
country. Sergeant Brent M. Maher of Honey Creek, Specialist Donald L. 
Nichols of Shell Rock, Staff Sergeant James A. Justice of Grimes, and 
Sergeant 1st Class Terry L. Pasker of Cedar Rapids are Iowan heroes who 
will never be forgotten.
   Mr. Speaker, I am in awe of the Red Bulls' commitment and sacrifices 
in order to make our country safer. Each and every member of this elite 
unit represents the best of Iowa's work ethic and patriotism. They make 
me proud to be an Iowan, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. 
I invite my colleagues in the House to join me in congratulating the 
Red Bulls on attaining the Citizen Patriot Unit Award and welcoming 
them home. We will forever appreciate their extraordinary service.

                          ____________________