[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11742]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING E'LEESE MADGETT MANRIQUE FOR HER SERVICE TO OUR NATION'S 
                           MILITARY VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHELE BACHMANN

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 5, 2008

  Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly 
special American patriot. This particular American hasn't served 
overseas defending our freedom and liberty, nor has she dedicated her 
life to serving her fellow man through charity. However, I'm certain 
that later in life she'll be able to reflect on her accomplishments and 
truly realize the impact she has made on so many lives.
  Madam Speaker, this patriot's name is E'leese Madgett Manrique, and 
she is a 12-year-old girl from Buffalo, Minnesota. I call attention to 
her today because on June 7, she will embark on a mission in honor of 
our military veterans.
  To show her support for our military personnel and their families, 
she will be leaving the Buffalo Rodeo Grounds on her horse ``Chip'' at 
noon this Saturday, and will ride her horse for the next 86 days 
throughout Minnesota to raise money for a ranch to support our military 
veterans. Her vision is to create a place where any soldier in need of 
a place to heal can go for free.
  To paint a clearer picture of what ``The Ranch'' will look like, I'll 
let E'leese tell you in her own words:

       The Ranch will not be fancy, in fact it will be humble. 
     Just like the men and women that serve their country. Here in 
     Minnesota we have a very good life. People in Minnesota have 
     a long tradition of service and volunteering. Neighbor 
     helping neighbor. The Ranch will be a number of cabins 
     surrounding a lodge and dining room. Soldiers can spend the 
     day lounging around. Taking a walk, going for a swim, or 
     taking a horse out for a ride. Do ranch chores or relax, read 
     a book, or have a good conversation, be our guest. For those 
     who do so much for others, we thank you.

  E'leese, we thank you. At the tender of age 12, you are displaying 
more respect, love, and caring than many folks do in a lifetime. As you 
start your trip this Saturday, know that you have the prayers and 
support of Minnesota and Americans across the country. We are all proud 
of you E'leese, and your selflessness is an inspiration to us all. May 
God bless you on your journey, and we look forward to your safe return.

                          ____________________