[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 10]
[Senate]
[Page 13811]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


             Private First Class Arick Michael Dobson Tarr

  Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the life 
of PFClass Arick Michael Dobson Tarr, who died at the young age of 20 
on July 30, 2011, at Fort Lewis, in Tacoma, WA, where he was stationed. 
Private First Class Tarr was assigned to the Headquarters and 
Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry at Fort Lewis and 
served his country with honor and distinction on a tour of duty in 
Afghanistan. He was preparing to leave in January to return to New 
Hampshire.
  Americans across the country gathered recently to commemorate the 
tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001, and to reflect on how the 
tragic events of that day changed our Nation and all Americans on a 
personal level. Although Arick was only 10 years old at the time, his 
life was forever changed by 9/11. That day sparked within him a desire 
to join the Army and defend the freedoms we hold dear.
  Arick defended the American people with courage and distinction, 
receiving many awards for his service, including the National Defense 
Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, 
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas 
Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Marksmanship 
Qualification Badge, and Overseas Service Bar.
  Arick is remembered by family and friends as having a larger than 
life personality and a contagious smile. He understood the importance 
of family and was a role model for his two brothers and six cousins. 
Although Arick spent much of his life in South Portland, ME, he was 
very excited to return to New Hampshire after his service, to attend 
college and begin a new chapter of his life with his fiancee.
  Our Nation can never adequately thank this young hero for his 
willingness to heed the call to defend the American people and our way 
of life. I hope that, even in these dark days, Arick's family can find 
comfort in knowing that all Americans share a deep appreciation for his 
brave service and sacrifice.
  Arick is survived by his fiance, Stefani Greco; his parents, Richard 
and Jennifer; and his two brothers, Tanner and Wyatt, all of 
Litchfield, NH. He also leaves behind a caring extended family. This 
young hero will be missed by all.
  I ask my colleagues and all Americans to please join me in honoring 
the bright life and brave service of PFC Arick Tarr.

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