[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 92 (Friday, May 26, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E735]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALLEN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER ARMY STAFF SERGEANT 
                       (SSG) KENNETH RAY BRADLEY

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 26, 2017

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army 
Staff Sergeant (SSG) Kenneth Ray Bradley who paid the ultimate 
sacrifice while defending our nation on May 28, 2003, during Operation 
Iraqi Freedom. SSG Bradley died of a heart attack while serving in 
Baqubah, Iraq.
  SSG Bradley was assigned to Company B 588th Engineer Battalion, Fort 
Hood, Texas. The Utica native was a 19-year Army veteran.
  According to the Associated Press, SSG Bradley enjoyed music. 
Cleveland Washington, SSG Bradley's first cousin, said he liked musical 
instruments.
  ``He was left-handed,'' Washington said. ``He blew the trumpet and 
played the guitar. He always liked music and was in a band.''
  People who grew up with SSG Bradley and served with him in the Army 
memorialized him on the ``Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom'' 
website.
  Sergeant First Class (SFC) Lee of Washington said he was a great 
leader. ``I remember that he was a great NCO and a great leader,'' SFC 
Lee said. ``He is a true hero and will never be forgotten. God bless 
his family, friends, and brothers-in-arms.''
  Sergeant First Class (SFC) Frye of Fort Benning, Georgia, said SSG 
Bradley would not be forgotten. ``You are never forgotten, brother, and 
your passing caused me so much grief. Your words touched my heart,'' 
SFC Frye said. ``I remember those days you talked of spending time with 
your family prior to being ordered to go to Iraq. The fact that your 
life was cut short, and we're all robbed of your love, hurts me to this 
day. I only pray your family has found peace in your memories and what 
a great man you were.''
  Melvin Waters of Woodbridge, Virginia, offered his condolences to the 
family. ``I would like to convey my sincerest sympathy to Claudia, 
Brian, and Sandra,'' Waters said. ``Kenney is truly missed by many and 
he will always live in our thoughts and good deeds.''
  Specialist (SPC) George Sanchez served with SSG Bradley. ``I am 
currently attending St. Mary's University as a disabled veteran,'' SPC 
Sanchez said. ``The days I feel like quitting, I think of SSG Bradley, 
and my other fallen brothers-in-arms. Then I pick myself up and keep 
going for them. I dedicate my education to their memory. Your sacrifice 
is not in vain, my friend.''
  SSG Bradley bravely fought to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. His 
service to our nation will not be forgotten.

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