[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 1]
[Senate]
[Page 692]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                      Lance Corporal Michael Geary

  Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, it is with deep sadness that I rise to 
honor the life of LCpl Michael Geary, who died on December 8, 2010, 
from wounds received in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, while supporting 
Operation Enduring Freedom. He was just 20 years old at the time of his 
death, and 5 months into his first tour of duty as a Marine. Michael 
was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine 
Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Camp Lejeune, NC.
  A native of Derry, NH, Michael graduated from Pinkerton Academy in 
June 2009. As early as age 14, he wanted to join the Marines. Michael 
left for boot camp in North Carolina just 1 month after graduating high 
school to fulfill his life-long dream.
  Admirably, Michael wished to represent our country to the best of his 
ability--so much so that, prior to his deployment, he studied Afghan 
culture in order to increase his cultural awareness and to communicate 
more effectively with the people of Afghanistan, especially Afghan 
youth.
  Michael is described by his loved ones as loyal, good-natured, and 
driven. From attaining his black belt in karate to competing on the 
gridiron for the Pinkerton Astros, his drive was truly inspiring. His 
family attributes the personal growth of his younger cousin, Luke, to 
Michael's relentless drive and his dedication to the ones he loved. 
Michael is Luke's hero. This young patriot is also a hero to the State 
of New Hampshire and our entire country.
  LCpl Michael Geary made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of the 
country he loved and for that he has earned our enduring gratitude. I 
hope his family can find comfort in knowing that all Americans share a 
deep appreciation for his heroic service.
  Michael is survived by his parents, Timothy and Nancy Geary of Derry, 
NH. He also leaves behind a caring extended family and many dear 
friends. This young hero will be missed by all.
  I ask my colleagues and all Americans to please join me in honoring 
the life, service and sacrifice of LCpl Michael Geary.

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