[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 5402-5403]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF STAFF SERGEANT MICHAEL PAUL BARRERA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 16, 2005

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding 
contributions of SSG Michael Paul Barrera, and to acknowledge the 
renaming of Veterans Elementary School as SSG Michael P. Barrera 
Veterans Elementary.
  After enlisting in the Army in December of 1995 at the age of 18, he 
completed his basic training in Fort Knox, KY. Michael was always 
passionate about his job and strove to be the best.
  His commanding officers recognized him with such commendations and 
achievement awards as a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.
  On April 9 of 2003 Michael was sent to Iraq with the 4th Infantry 
Division from Fort Hood,

[[Page 5403]]

TX, in support of ``Operation Iraqi Freedom.'' During a routine trip 
for food as Michael and his crew were returning to camp, an improvised 
explosive device that had been buried in the sand was set off by remote 
control as the tank rolled over it. As a result of his injuries, 
Michael passed away on October 28, 2003, at the age of 26.
  Michael joined a long list of family members in service. In light of 
his outstanding service, he was appointed Sergeant by the young age of 
20. He sought to make a career in the Army, aspiring to become an ROTC 
instructor.
  Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to have this opportunity to recognize 
the bravery and dedication of SSG Michael Paul Barrera.

                          ____________________