[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 114 (Friday, August 2, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H5376]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                              {time}  1245
              TRIBUTE TO STAFF SERGEANT SONNY C. ZIMMERMAN

  (Mr. JORDAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a brave 
young Ohio soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of this 
great country, Army Staff Sergeant Sonny C. Zimmerman.
  Sonny graduated from Waynesfield-Goshen High School in 2005 and 
served his first tour in Afghanistan 2006. His fellow soldiers knew him 
as a leader and spoke freely of the times he helped them, stood up for 
them, and sacrificed for them.
  Chaplain Brian Fruchey mentioned how Sonny always said, ``I have to 
bring my guys home,'' and noted that he always put himself last.
  Sonny Zimmerman was a decorated hero who served with courage and 
honor. He died on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, in Afghanistan. He is 
survived by his wife, Morgan; daughter, Riley; parents, Chris and 
Michelle; stepfather, David; two sisters; and other loving family.
  I was touched to see how many of Sonny's friends, family, and 
neighbors came together in his hometown of Waynesfield to honor his 
life and sacrifice.
  He volunteered to serve. He loved the Army, loved his country, and 
fought to promote freedom. For this, each and every American owes him 
and his family a debt of gratitude.
  Sonny Zimmerman will be deeply missed, but the strength of his 
character and the courage he demonstrated through his service will live 
on.

                          ____________________