[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19585]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         PAYING TRIBUTE TO STAFF SERGEANT CHRISTOPHER M. FALKEL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THOMAS G. TANCREDO

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 6, 2005

  Mr. TANCREDO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a fallen 
soldier from Highlands Ranch, SSG Christopher M. Falkel. Staff Sergeant 
Falkel died during combat operations in Deh Afghan, Afghanistan. He was 
just 22 years old.
  Chris was a member of the elite Green Berets, and was affectionately 
known by his colleagues as ``little brother.'' He was well known by his 
peers for his principle, toughness, patriotism, love of country and his 
bravery.
  Staff Sergeant Falkel was a 2001 graduate of Thunder Ridge High 
School in Colorado. He enlisted that October with the goal of serving 
his country in the Special Forces. After completing courses in Arabic 
language and survival, evasion, resistance and escape he began Special 
Forces training in 2002.
  Ultimately, Christopher was assigned to the 1st Special Warfare 
Training group, where he served his country with honor and distinction, 
earning--among other awards and medals--the Purple Heart and the Bronze 
Star.
  Mr. Speaker, my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out 
to friends and family of Staff Sergeant Falkel.
  Christopher served his country with bravery and distinction, fighting 
against the forces of tyranny and oppression. He will be missed by all 
who knew and loved him.
  All Americans owe Christopher and his family a great debt of 
gratitude. We honor his service and his sacrifice.

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