[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 27044]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING USO MARINE OF THE YEAR--SGT. JUSTIN CLOUGH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 10, 2007

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the military 
service of Sgt Justin Clough, the most recent recipient of the USO's 
Marine of the Year award.
  Although Justin is only 22, he has demonstrated bravery and 
leadership beyond his years. Since joining the U.S. Marine Corps, 
Justin has served 2 tours of duty and led more than 100 combat missions 
in Iraq as the squad leader of the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. 
During these missions, his squad was frequently attacked by direct and 
indirect fire. His dedication to leadership and training would ensure 
the safety of his fellow marines and ultimately prove to save his own 
life. On December 26, 2006, Justin was wounded by an insurgent sniper 
while on a routine patrol in Fallujah. Following the attack, his 
comrades, which included Justin's twin brother Nathaniel Clough, 
swiftly brought him to safety.
  On September 20, the USO recognized Justin with one of its most 
prestigious honors, the Marine of the Year award at the 66th annual USO 
World Gala. In addition to the Marine of the Year award, Justin was 
chosen as the top marine in his company and battalion, awarded with the 
Purple Heart, and recommended for the Bronze Star with Combat ``V'' for 
valor.
  Since returning to Stonington, CT, Justin has balanced physical 
therapy and volunteer work with the local high school football team. 
Upon receiving his medical discharge papers, he hopes to attend a 
university or work on a military base as a civilian.
  While his presence will certainly be missed in the 2nd Battalion, 8th 
Marine Regiment, his leadership will undoubtedly yield success in 
future academic and work endeavors. I ask my colleagues to join with me 
and my constituents in saluting Justin's service to the Marines and our 
Nation.

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