[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 3]
[Senate]
[Page 3651]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES


                     Specialist Joshua R. Campbell

  Mr. BENNET. Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today 
to honor the life and heroic service of SPC Joshua R. Campbell. 
Specialist Campbell, assigned to the 546th Transportation Company, 
based in Fort Bragg, NC, died on January 29, 2011, of injuries 
sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his 
vehicle. Specialist Campbell was serving in support of Operation 
Enduring Freedom in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He was 22 years old.
  A native of Bennett, CO, Specialist Campbell enlisted in the Army in 
2008. He served a tour of duty in Afghanistan, during which his 
commanders recognized his extraordinary bravery and talent. Specialist 
Campbell's decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal, the 
National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service 
Medal, and the NATO Medal.
  During his 2 years of service, Specialist Campbell distinguished 
himself through his courage, dedication to duty, and absolute 
commitment to his fellow soldiers. Fellow soldiers remember him as a 
consummate professional with an unending commitment to excellence. They 
remember his generous character and positive disposition.
  Specialist Campbell's family remembers him as a dedicated son, 
husband, and father. They also remember him as someone always willing 
to reach out and help others.
  Mark Twain once said, ``The fear of death follows from the fear of 
life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.'' 
Specialist Campbell's service was in keeping with this sentiment--by 
selflessly putting country first, he lived life to the fullest. He 
lived with a sense of the highest honorable purpose.
  At substantial personal risk, he braved the chaos of combat zones 
throughout Afghanistan. And though his fate on the battlefield was 
uncertain, he pushed forward, protecting America's citizens, her 
safety, and the freedoms we hold dear. For his service and the lives he 
touched, Specialist Campbell will forever be remembered as one of our 
country's bravest.
  To Specialist Campbell's entire family--I cannot imagine the sorrow 
you must be feeling. I hope that, in time, the pain of your loss will 
be eased by your pride in Joshua's service and by your knowledge that 
his country will never forget him. We are humbled by his service and 
his sacrifice.

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