[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11572]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                             FALLEN HEROES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. XAVIER BECERRA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2004

  Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the members of the 
United States armed services who make sacrifices daily in defense of 
our nation, and to pay my respects to those who have made the ultimate 
sacrifice in the service of their country. As our men and women in 
uniform continue to answer the highest calling and place themselves in 
harm's way, their sacrifices have touched us all--regardless of race, 
economic status, or party lines. We all must honor the bravery and 
commitment that each of these men and women have so proudly displayed, 
as well as the courage and resilience of their families and loved ones.
  This moment of silence provides an opportunity for us to remind our 
troops that they remain in our thoughts and prayers. In my own 
district, California's 31st District, our community has suffered the 
loss of a heroic, noble, and admirable young man--Eric A. Ayon. I wish 
to take this opportunity to recognize his strength, valor, and bravery 
as well as the sacrifice endured by his wife, son and family. This 
family is just one of hundreds whose sacrifice we are recognizing and 
honoring today.
  Let us continue to pay our respects to our fallen soldiers and their 
families who suffer the greatest loss. Through this honor and 
remembrance, we can stand unified with gratitude for their sacrifice.

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