[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 77 (Tuesday, June 4, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H3028]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF CAPTAIN BRANDON L. CYR

  (Mr. HULTGREN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory 
of a true American hero, Captain Brandon L. Cyr.
  Yesterday morning, I was humbled to attend Brandon's interment at 
Arlington National Cemetery. Standing on that hallowed ground 
surrounded by Brandon and his fallen comrades is a sobering testament 
to the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the defense of 
freedom.
  Brandon was killed in the line of duty when the plane he was 
commanding was shot down over Afghanistan on April 27, 2013.
  A distinguished officer, accomplished pilot and dedicated friend, 
Brandon received the Meritorious Service Medal, five Air Medals and the 
Air Force Achievement Medal. At the time of his death, Brandon had 
logged 1,700 flight hours--900 of those in combat. Brandon enters into 
the honored company of those who, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, 
``gave the last full measure of devotion'' so ``that this Nation might 
live.''
  It is with heartfelt gratitude that I recognize Brandon, his family, 
and American veterans and their families everywhere for their service 
and dedication to this Nation.

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