[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 1]
[House]
[Page 69]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD SPECIALIST MICHAEL G. MIHALAKIS

  (Ms. LOFGREN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, as I rise today, over 500 Americans have 
lost their lives in the war in Iraq. Each loss is a wrenching tragedy 
to a family somewhere in America, and this tragic loss has now come to 
the Mihalakis family in San Jose, California.
  U.S. Army National Guard Specialist Michael G. Mihalakis of San Jose, 
California, was killed the day after Christmas when his Humvee 
overturned near the Baghdad International Airport. He was assigned to 
the 270th Military Police Company and was one of the youngest 
casualties of the Iraq conflict. Michael was proud to be a soldier, 
with a strong commitment to service, an unflinching bravery, a 
dedication to family, and a deep love of country.
  America remains strong and free because, for generations, Americans 
like Michael have been willing to put the well-being of their community 
and country ahead of their personal comfort and safety. From towns and 
cities all over America, ordinary citizens have become transformed into 
heroes through their service.
  There is aching loss and pain when such heroism means the hero is not 
coming home. This wrenching loss can never really be healed for the 
mothers and fathers who have given what is most precious to them for 
their country. We want to thank the Mihalakis family and let them know 
they are in our hearts and prayers and that his grateful country will 
always remember their son.
  On behalf of the House of Representatives, I want to thank Michael 
for his service to the United States and offer heartfelt condolences to 
his parents and entire family.

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