[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 9]
[House]
[Page 12621]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO THE LATE STAFF SERGEANT JUSTIN LEE VASQUEZ

  (Mr. SALAZAR asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to pay tribute to and 
recognize Army Staff Sergeant Justin Lee Vasquez. Sgt. Vasquez was 
killed in the line of duty while serving his country in Iraq. Justin 
Vasquez was proud of his service in the Army and willingly wore his 
country's uniform. We should honor his dedication, courage and 
leadership.
  Each day men and women in the Armed Forces willingly face unknown 
dangers in the hope to bring peace and prosperity to those in need. We 
must not forget the individual stories of these soldiers who have 
served our country with courage and honor.
  Justin Vasquez was from Manzanola, Colorado. He played football in 
high school and loved to hunt and fish with his family. He was known 
throughout his squadron as being a dedicated leader who always wanted 
to help other people.
  Justin Vasquez was serving his second tour of duty. He was given the 
option not to return to Iraq. Instead, he returned, because he did not 
want to leave his men alone.
  On Sunday, June 5, 2005, Staff Sergeant Justin Lee Vasquez was killed 
when his military convoy was attacked.
  Justin Vasquez made the ultimate sacrifice by courageously and 
honorably serving his country. To him it was everything to be a 
soldier.
  My heart goes out to Justin's parents Vicki and Tino, his wife Riley, 
and his son Justin. The Vasquez family has demonstrated exceptional 
selflessness and courage in such trying times.
  Mr. Speaker, I submit this recognition to the United States House of 
Representatives in honor of their sacrifice, so that Justin Lee Vasquez 
may live on in memory.

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