[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23430]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER PAUL PILLEN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEPHANIE HERSETH

                            of south dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 20, 2005

  Ms. HERSETH. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened to report the passing of 
Chief Warrant Officer Paul Pillen. He was killed while serving in 
Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  The lives of countless people were enormously enhanced by Paul's 
goodwill and service. He inspired all those who knew him. Our Nation is 
a far better place because of his life. All Americans owe Paul, and the 
other soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of 
freedom, a tremendous debt of gratitude for their service.
  Every member of the House of Representatives has taken a solemn oath 
to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. 
While we certainly understand the gravity of the issues facing this 
legislative body, Chief Warrant Officer Paul Pillen lived that 
commitment to our country. Today, we remember and honor his noble 
service to the United States and the ultimate sacrifice he has paid 
with his life to defend our freedoms and foster liberty for others.
  Mr. Speaker, I express my sympathies to the family and friends of 
Chief Warrant Officer Paul Pillen. I believe the best way to honor him 
is to emulate his commitment to our country. I know he will always be 
missed, but his service to our Nation will never be forgotten.

                          ____________________