[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 141 (Thursday, October 10, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1477]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          COMBAT PAPER PROJECT

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. CHRISTOPHER P. GIBSON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2013

  Mr. GIBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the incredible 
work done by the Combat Paper Project in California, New York, New 
Jersey and across the globe in helping combat veterans transition into 
civilian life.
  Having served 24 years in the United States Army, one of my most 
profound responsibilities as a commander was to help my troopers 
readjust when we returned home from combat deployments and assist in 
their transition to civilian life after leaving the Army. Since 
retiring from the Army and becoming a United States Congressman, I have 
been proud to support the countless public and private sector groups, 
businesses, organizations, and individuals who are also dedicated to 
this mission of assisting our veterans.
  The Combat Paper Project is an outstanding example of this effort. 
Founded by artist and papermaker Drew Matott and Iraq War veteran Drew 
Cameron, this organization seeks to assist in the veteran's transition 
by turning the uniform of the soldier, sailor, airman, or Marine into a 
piece of unique art. Notably, this is a collaborative process with the 
veteran helping to make the transition, breaking down the uniform and 
personally turning it into a unique piece of art that captures their 
own interests or life experiences, made up of the fabric in which they 
served their country.
  I recognize the difficulty in finding ways to acclimate our uniformed 
men and women back to. civilian life. Combat Paper is a unique way to 
do so and I thank its founders, supporters, and participants for its 
success to date. I wish this organization continued success and I and 
my colleagues in Congress will continue to work alongside them in 
repaying these men and women who have sacrificed so much.

                          ____________________