[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 3329]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        IN HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE OF SERGEANT MICHAEL FINKE, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 2, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
United States Marine Corps Sergeant Michael Finke, Jr., who 
courageously and selflessly rose to the call to duty and made the 
ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our country.
  Sergeant Finke was an exceptional United States Marine and was an 
equally exceptional human being. His life was characterized by his 
unwavering sense of duty and commitment to our nation, and above all, 
his life reflected a deep dedication to, and steadfast focus on his 
family--his beloved wife Heather, his parents, sisters, brother, 
grandparents and many friends.
  Sergeant Finke grew up in Medina, and shortly after high school 
graduation, he fulfilled his childhood dream by enlisting in the 
Marines. His eleven years of service was framed by honor, bravery and 
duty. Throughout his military journey, Sergeant Finke carried with him 
a strong foundation of faith, family and community. He quickly ascended 
through the ranks, and attained the title of Sergeant. His strong 
intellect and solid sense of integrity evenly matched his exceptional 
sense of humor and kindness toward others. Sergeant Finke's entire 
life--civilian and military, reflected his generous heart and sincere 
concern for the welfare of others. He often and easily offered his 
assistance to anyone in need, asking for nothing in return.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance 
of Sergeant Michael Finke, Jr., whose heroic actions, commitment and 
bravery will be remembered always. I extend my deepest condolences to 
the family of Sergeant Finke--his beloved wife Heather; his beloved 
parents, Sally and Michael Sr.; his beloved stepparents Geoffrey and 
Nadine; his beloved sisters and brother, Trisha, Tonia and Tim; his 
beloved grandparents, Wayne Finke and Donna Thompson; and his extended 
family and friends.
  The significant honor, sacrifice, service, and courage that defined 
the life of Sergeant Michael Finke, Jr., will be forever honored and 
remembered by the entire Cleveland community and the entire nation. And 
within the hearts of his family and friends, the bonds of love and 
memories created in life by Sergeant Finke will never be broken, and 
will live on for all time.

                          ____________________