[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7695]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             ON THE LOSS OF LANCE CORPORAL MATTHEW K. SERIO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 27, 2004

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow that I rise to 
recognize the death of Lance Corporal Matthew K. Serio, a brave Marine 
who served with dignity and honor in Iraq. I join his family and the 
people of Rhode Island in mourning this great loss.
  On Monday, April 5, Lance Corporal Serio was killed by enemy fire 
during combat operations near Fallujah, Iraq. A member of Charlie 
Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, Lance Corporal Serio was serving 
his second tour of duty in Iraq. He graduated from North Providence 
High School in 2001, where he distinguished himself as a member of the 
football team. After graduation, he pursued a lifelong dream and 
immediately enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps.
  I extend my deepest condolences to his parents Anthony and Sharon, 
his younger brother Chris, and his older brother A.J., who serves in 
the Navy. The people of North Providence and Rhode Island have 
demonstrated their love and appreciation for Matthew's sacrifice and 
have spoken highly of his contributions to their lives. Those who knew 
him well recalled his friendliness and compassion, as well as his 
patriotism and love of service.
  His loss causes us to reflect on the bravery demonstrated by our men 
and women in uniform as they carry out their obligations in the face of 
danger. When their nation called them to duty to preserve freedom, 
liberty and the security of their neighbors, they answered without 
hesitation. We remember those who have fallen not only as soldiers, but 
also as patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. May 
we keep their loved ones in our thoughts and prayers as they struggle 
to endure this difficult period and mourn the heroes America has lost.
  We will continue to hope for the safe and speedy return of all of our 
troops serving throughout the world.

                          ____________________