[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 17324-17325]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              PAYING TRIBUTE TO SPECIALIST IGNACIO RAMIREZ

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JON C. PORTER

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 6, 2006

  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of United 
States Army Specialist Ignacio Ramirez, who was killed on August 9,

[[Page 17325]]

2006, in Ramadi, Iraq while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  Ignacio ``Nacho'' Ramirez was born in Los Angeles on August 23, 1983. 
He spent the majority of his youth in Henderson, Nevada. He was 
involved in athletics throughout his youth, playing youth baseball and 
high school football. He graduated from Basic High School in 2002, and 
joined the United States Army shortly after graduation.
  Specialist Ramirez was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 37th Armored 
Regiment, 1st Armored Division of the United States Army based out of 
Friedberg, Germany. He lost his life when a roadside bomb exploded near 
his vehicle.
  Specialist Ramirez was a hero whose desire to serve his country will 
forever make an impact on his family, his community and his country. He 
joined the Army to help the United States fight the Global War on 
Terror and he will not only be remembered for his sacrifice and willing 
service, but for the extraordinary person that he was.
  Ignacio's warmth and optimism brightened the lives of his family and 
friends. He is survived by his loving parents, Marina and Robert Vance; 
and six siblings, Ofelia Espinoza, Sidney Jiminez, Ivan and Jasmine 
Ramirez, and James and Tia Vance.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor the life of United States Army 
Specialist Ignacio Ramirez. Specialist Ramirez made the ultimate 
sacrifice for his country while defending democracy and freedom. He was 
a true patriot who served the United States of America with valor and 
courage. I am saddened by his loss and I extend my deepest sympathies 
to his family.

                          ____________________