[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 86 (Thursday, May 18, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E665]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING SPECIALIST JAMES STEVENS' SERVICE

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                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 18, 2017

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Specialist 
James Stevens as he selflessly defended our nation.
  A native of Knoxville, Iowa, Specialist Stevens grew up playing with 
``GI Joe'' action figures and watching war movies, dreaming that one 
day he too would become a soldier. In 2010, James enlisted in the U.S. 
Army and then graduated from Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, 
achieving his childhood dream. During his time at Infantry School, 
James learned how to defend this nation and the importance of 
brotherhood. Two years later, Specialist Stevens deployed to 
Afghanistan where he was stationed at Combat Outpost Zerok. In support 
of Operation Enduring Freedom, Specialist Stevens and his infantry unit 
were responsible for guard duty and combat patrols. Stevens' valor and 
leadership led him to serve as a decorated hero receiving the 
Afghanistan Campaign medal with Campaign Star, Army Commendation Medal, 
NATO Medal, and the Combat Infantryman' s badge.
  Currently a veteran, Stevens continues to serve members of his 
community in East Peoria, Illinois. As a proud father, he raises his 
two girls, Kirstin and Madison, and teaches his daughters the same 
lessons learned while serving aside his Army brothers at Fort Riley: 
loyalty, duty, respect, and honor. In addition, Stevens volunteers with 
the Habitat for Humanity Greater Peoria Area where communities come 
together to build homes for veterans and military families.
  Specialist James Stevens is an American hero, who has dutifully 
served his nation and continues to proudly serve his family and 
community. Thanks to Specialist Stevens for his service and sacrifice. 
This country is blessed to have servicemen, like James Stevens, who 
selflessly devoted their careers to protecting this country. We owe him 
a debt that can never be repaid.

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