[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 16]
[Senate]
[Page 21985]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           LCPL JAMES R. SARGENT, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

 Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, it is with great pride that I 
rise today too honor and commend the service of a true West Virginia 
hero. LCPL James R. Sargent of the United States Marine Corps was one 
of many West Virginians who courageously fought in the Vietnam War. 
Lance Corporal Sargent's service was a testament to West Virginia's 
long storied patriotic tradition. A tradition that can be traced back 
to the days of George Washington, and one that is very much alive 
today. In the spirit of West Virginia patriotism, I praise Lance 
Corporal Sargent for his honorable service and contribution to our 
country.
  On October 7, 2005, after having been declared Missing in Action for 
over 37 years, LCPL James R. Sargent will finally be laid to rest at 
Arlington National Cemetery. Lance Corporal Sargent was listed as 
missing on May 10, 1968, as his platoon provided artillery support in 
defense of the Civilian Irregular Defense Group camp known as Ngok 
Tavak. The Marine detachment was attacked by a prepared and well-
equipped Viet Cong and North Vietnamese battalion of troops. For their 
bravery in battle, Lance Corporal Sargent's platoon received the 
Meritorious Unit Commendation from then Secretary of the Navy L.F. 
Chapman, Jr.
  Lance Corporal Sargent was a native West Virginian from Anawalt in 
McDowell County. Like so many West Virginians, past and present, Lance 
Corporal Sargent heeded the Nation's call for service, and they deserve 
our gratitude and deep respect. I am honored to be able to pay respects 
to this brave West Virginian and his family and friends. After many 
years full of questions and grief, I hope that Lance Corporal Sargent's 
loved ones may finally have much deserved closure and peace of mind. 
His surviving family, friends, and fellow veterans should all be proud 
of his service, patriotism, and commitment to his country and its 
defense. For that matter, all Americans should be proud.
  I ask that we all take a moment to remember all of the American 
soldiers who gave their lives in service to their country.

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