[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 60 (Thursday, April 6, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E292]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF ZACH BENJAMIN MERRILL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RUBEN GALLEGO

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 6, 2023

  Mr. GALLEGO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of a friend and proud Marine, Zach Benjamin Merrill.
  I served with Zach in Iraq, supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, as 
part of Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines. We were among the 
survivors of a 7-month tour where our battalion suffered among the 
worst casualties of the conflict. During the chaos of war, Zach showed 
immense courage and selflessness in responding to enemy action. 
Unfortunately, the war followed Zach home. On March 23, 2023, at the 
young age of 37, he passed away after a courageous battle with Leukemia 
caused by the toxins we were exposed to in Iraq. Even as he fought his 
final battle, Zach always made everyone around him smile, regardless of 
the circumstances.
  Zach's legacy is that of service, honor, and sacrifice. His memory 
will forever live on in the hearts of his family, and the hearts of 
every Marine he served with. I am praying for his wife, Andrea, and his 
children, Zachary, Julien, and Jaden.
  Zach was cherished by those who knew him and will be deeply and 
sincerely missed. May he rest in peace.
  Semper Fidelis, Zach Benjamin Merrill.

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