Trent Kelly

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to rise today in memory of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal (LCpl) Marc Lucas Tucker who was killed on June 8, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. LCpl Tucker died in a non-hostile vehicle accident on Alternate Supply Route Uranium, Iraq. LCpl Tucker, a Pontotoc native and 1999 South Pontotoc High School graduate, was assigned to the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Force Service Support Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan, attached to 2nd Force Service Support Group (FSSG), II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). LCpl Tucker's mother, Donna Bagwell, says her son wanted to be a Marine from the time he was a little boy. He wanted to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather who also served in the Marine Corps. In 2003, LCpl Tucker enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. His service included training in Okinawa and South Korea in the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). In 2005, LCpl Tucker volunteered to go to Iraq to protect our nation in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His death was hard on the family, but Mrs. Bagwell says her son wanted to serve our nation. ``He loved America,'' Mrs. Bagwell said. ``He loved the Marine Corps and everything about it.'' LCpl Tucker's awards include the Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, and Sea Service Ribbon. LCpl Tucker is survived by his parents; Kelly Tucker and Donna Bagwell and siblings; Christy Irby, Pam Bolen, and Terry Bagwell. LCpl Tucker lived to serve our country and died while protecting it. His devotion to protecting our freedoms will not be forgotten

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to rise today in the memory of United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Mark Lucas Tucker, who was killed on June 8, 2005, in a nonhostile vehicle accident on Alternate Supply Route Uranium in Iraq. Lance Corporal Tucker, a Pontotoc, Mississippi, native, was assigned to the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Force Service Support Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan, attached to the 2nd Force Service Support Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Forward. Lance Corporal Tucker's mother, Donna Bagwell, is seated in the gallery today. She said her son wanted to be a marine from the time he was a little boy. He wanted to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, who also served in the Marine Corps. In 2003, Lance Corporal Tucker enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. In 2005, he volunteered to go to Iraq to protect our Nation in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mrs. Bagwell said her son planned to stay in the United States Marine Corps until retirement and make it a career. ``He loved America,'' Mrs. Bagwell said, ``He loved the Marine Corps and everything about it.'' Lance Corporal Tucker is survived by his parents, Kelly and Donna Bagwell, and Mark Tucker; and siblings, Christy Irby, Pam Bolen, and Terry Bagwell. Lance Corporal Tucker demonstrated the characteristics that make us all proud to be Americans, and we honor his service and his life. Semper fi, Lance Corporal Tucker. Memorial Day

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise, as we enter this Memorial Day weekend, to recognize all of those great Americans who have given their lives for the freedoms that we enjoy. This Nation can never forget those who preserved our Nation and died way too soon. God bless all those who have died in defense of this great Nation, and God bless America.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Army Sergeant (SGT) Jason Walter Vaughn who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on May 10, 2007, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Vaughn died of wounds from an improvised explosive device that detonated near his vehicle in Baqubah, Iraq, during his second tour of duty. SGT Vaughn was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Washington. He joined the Army in 2002, serving in Iraq from November 2003 to November 2004, and then returning in July 2006. He received his initial training at Fort Benning, Georgia. SGT Vaughn held the rank of Specialist at the time of his death and was posthumously promoted to Sergeant. During his military service, SGT Vaughn received the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal and the Global War on Terror Service Medal. He was also awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. SGT Vaughn was born in Memphis, TN, moving a few times before his family settled in Iuka, MS. He graduated from Tishomingo County High School in Iuka, MS in 1996. He later attended Northeast Mississippi Community College and Mississippi State University. According to his mother, RaNae Vaughn, ``Jason was a kindhearted, selfless person. He was a beautiful person inside and out. His memory inspires us to be better, do better and dream big.'' His father, Walter Vaughn, told the Associated Press, ``The world lost a leader. My son was a born leader.'' SGT Vaughn's survivors include his wife, Contessa Williams Vaughn; stepdaughter, Ashley Martin; father and stepmother, Walter and Pat Vaughn; mother, RaNae Smith Vaughn, as well as a brother, sister, and two step-sisters. In 2011, H.R. 2213, introduced by Representative Alan Nunnelee, designated the Iuka, MS Post Office as the ``Sergeant Jason W. Vaughn Post Office.'' As of July 1, 2017, the portion of Mississippi Highway 25 within the city limits of Iuka, MS will be known as the ``SGT Jason Vaughn Memorial Highway.'' The sacrifice of this brave soldier will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Air Force Staff Sergeant (SSGT) John Thomas Self who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on May 14, 2007, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSGT Self was killed by an improvised explosive device in an attack that wounded three other airmen near Baghdad, Iraq, during his fourth tour of duty. SSGT Self was assigned to the 314th Security Forces Squadron, Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. A fire team leader with Detachment 3,732 Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, SSGT Self was on his 79th combat patrol when he was killed. His detachment was tasked with training Iraqi police. Self's mother, Jill Self, told the Associated Press that he volunteered for his fourth tour of duty because he wanted to serve his country. He was only home from his third tour of duty for a few weeks before he volunteered for his fourth tour. SSGT Self was born on November 2, 1977 in Tupelo, MS. He graduated from South Pontotoc High School, where he was a trumpet player in the marching band. He joined the Air Force in 1999 after attending Itawamba Community College. SSGT Self's mother, Jill Self, told the Associated Press, ``He loved to deer hunt and fish and play computer games. He was a loving child. He was there for his family and friends. I loved him very much and he's going to be missed.'' SSGT Self is survived by his mother and step father, Jill Long Self and Terry L. Self; his sisters, Misty D. Gann and Sandy Pennington, and his brothers, Ronnie Self and Sam Self. He is preceded in death by his father Robert A. Self. The sacrifice of this brave soldier will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Marine Corporal William Justin Lee Cooper who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on May 19, 2008, during Operation Enduring Freedom. Cpl Cooper was killed in combat near Garmsir, Afghanistan. Cpl Cooper was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. According to 40 Days of Honor, Cpl Cooper's skill as a marksman earned him a position on a sniper team. It was in fulfillment of his duties as a sniper that he was killed. During his military service, Cpl Cooper was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons. After graduating from Europa High School in 2004, Cpl Cooper briefly attended Holmes Community College. It was Christmas Eve of 2004 when Cpl Cooper told his father he was joining the Marine Corps. His father told the Associated Press, ``I remember telling him that he needed to have a lot of thought before doing this. He felt his country needed him at the time more than he needed school.'' He also said of his son, ``He had more friends than anyone I know. He was daddy's hero; now he's everyone's hero.'' Cpl Cooper's friend, Heather Burchfield, told the Associated Press, ``Coop was that fun-loving, crazy guy everyone liked. He's the one you always wanted on your side because he is always going to take up for you. Even in high school, he had a soldier's heart. He was a very loyal friend.'' Cpl Cooper is survived by his parents, Alan Cooper and Debra Cooper. The sacrifice of this brave soldier will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi soldier Army Sergeant (SGT) Joshua Shane Ladd who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on May 1, 2004, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Ladd, a Mississippi Army National Guard soldier, was killed when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his vehicle outside of Mosul, Iraq. SGT Ladd, a Port Gibson native, was assigned to the 367th Maintenance Company, Army National Guard, Dekalb, Mississippi. SGT Ladd volunteered for service shortly after his unit was mobilized in 2003. According to an article published in The Neshoba Democrat in January 2005, SGT Ladd was honored by an overflow crowd during a memorial service held on May 7 at the McClain-Hays Funeral Home. Outside of the funeral home, many people held flags and lined the streets which led to the Eastlawn Cemetery where SGT Ladd was laid to rest with full military honors. Major General Harold A. Cross, Adjutant General of the Mississippi National Guard, posthumously presented SGT Ladd with a Bronze Star for meritorious service and a Purple Heart. The newspaper article states that Major General Cross presented the Mississippi Magnolia Cross for meritorious service, saying SGT Ladd distinguished himself by making the ultimate sacrifice. Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour would later award SGT Ladd with the Mississippi Medal of Valor. ``He always wanted to be in the military and shoot big guns,'' SGT Ladd's cousin, Debbie Chisholm, said to the Associated Press. ``He wanted to be a soldier since he was a little boy.'' SGT Ladd is survived by his parents, Randy and Deborah Ladd. SGT Ladd's service will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 31st Annual Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Veterans Golden Age Games (NVGAG) that will be held in Biloxi, Mississippi, May 7-11, 2017. The National Veterans Golden Age Games give veterans with and without disabilities an equal opportunity to demonstrate their competitive spirit through multi-event sports. The National Veterans Golden Age Games are open to veterans 55 years of age and older who are enrolled to receive healthcare through the VA. Competition events include air rifle, bowling, cycling, swimming, golf, and table tennis. The National Veterans Golden Age Games was established in 1983 to inspire older veterans to remain physically active, regardless of age or ability. Thousands of competitors have achieved personal goals through rehabilitation and competition. It is inspiring to see so many veterans improve their quality of life through the National Veterans Golden Age Games. As a member of the Mississippi Army National Guard for 31 years, I know the important role physical fitness plays in the lives of our veterans. This program is a continued success as displayed by the many veterans who look to the National Veterans Golden Age Games for fulfillment on multiple levels. I am proud of all the veterans who are representing the First Congressional District of Mississippi this year and wish them the best of luck.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Tommy Seary Little who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on May 2, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Little died at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas from injuries sustained on April 19 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee outside Iskandariyah, Iraq. Sergeant Terrance A. Elizenberry of Clinton, Sergeant Wyman H. Jones of Columbus, Private First Class Stephen B. Brooks of Columbus, and Sergeant First Class Grayson ``Norris'' Galatas of Meridian were also injured in the explosion. SSG Little, an Aliceville, Alabama native and the youngest of 11 children, was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery Regiment, Mississippi Army National Guard, Columbus, Mississippi. SSG Little joined the Mississippi Army National Guard after he graduated Aliceville High School. According to an Associated Press news article, Major General Harold A. Cross, Adjutant General of the Mississippi Army National Guard, said members of the Guard would mourn the loss of this brave soldier. Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour said his family was deeply saddened by another death of a member of the Guard serving in Iraq. SSG Little's brother, Jack Little says his brother was liked by all. ``He was easy to get along with,'' Jack said. ``If he could help, Tommy always would. He loved the Army.'' SSG Little's sister, Ruth Henderson, said her brother was dedicated to the Army. ``He was a hard worker,'' Ruth said. ``He was also a great father.'' SSG Little is survived by his wife, Patricia; his daughter, Ashley; his mother Lue Della Little; his siblings, Otis Roosevelt Little, Louise Murray, Alfred Little, Eddie Lee Little, Idella Little, Lillie Hutton, Jack Little, Ruth Henderson, Eddie Dean Little, and Bessie Hinton. The National Guard Armory in Ackerman, Mississippi was named in honor of SSG Little. His sacrifice will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Marine Lance Corporal (LCpl) Casey Lynne Casanova who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our great nation on May 2, 2008, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. LCpl Casanova was killed along with three other Marines when a roadside bomb was detonated while they were on patrol in Karmah, Iraq. Also killed were Sergeant Glen E. Martinez of Boulder, Colorado; Corporal James Kimple of Amanda, Ohio; and Corporal Miguel A. Guzman of Norwalk, California. LCpl Casanova was assigned to the Combat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. LCpl Casanova served as a field radio operator. This was her first deployment to Iraq. LCpl Casanova grew up in McComb, Mississippi, where she sang in the chorus at Bass Memorial Academy in Purvis and played multiple musical instruments in the high school band. LCpl Casanova's mother, Paula Carruth, shared that Casey decided to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps while she was attending Southwest Community College in Summit, Mississippi. ``Casey had a servant's heart,'' Paula said. ``She wanted to serve, and the military allowed her to do that.'' Paula says her daughter's death was a tragedy, but triumph rose out of tragedy during a memorial service attended by more than 1,000 people. The service was held at New Heights Baptist Church in McComb. ``It became so huge and overwhelming,'' Paula said. ``My community was and still is so amazing.'' This summer, a portion of Highway 98 in Pike County will be named in LCpl Casanova's honor. LCpl Casanova is survived by her mother, Paula Carruth, and grandparents, John Paul and Kitty Carruth. LCpl Casanova devoted her life to military service. Her determination to serve will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Sergeant (SGT) John McClellan Smith who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our great nation on May 12, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Smith was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near his convoy in Iskandariyah, Iraq. During his tour in Iraq, SGT Smith's assignment was to train members of the Iraqi National Guard. SGT Smith was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, which was attached to the 155th BCT of Mississippi. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg before joining the California unit. SGT Smith was a JROTC cadet at New Hanover High School in Wilmington, North Carolina where he also played football, baseball, and lacrosse before graduating in 2000. During SGT Smith's funeral, Brigadier General Mike Ferriter of the 82nd Airborne Division presented Smith's mother, Judy Smith, with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. Sergeant First Class Richard Mitchell of the 82nd Airborne Division presented Mrs. Smith with the American flag. He told the Associated Press that SGT Smith was committed to serving his country. ``Smitty was a great soldier,'' SFC Mitchell said. ``He died doing what he wanted to do.'' SGT Smith's devotion to his nation will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi soldier Army Sergeant (SGT) Anthony O'Neal Magee who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 27, 2010, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Magee died at Landstul Regional Medical Center, Germany of wounds sustained at Forward Operating Base Kalsu, Iskandariyah. SGT Magee was wounded when enemy forces attacked his unit with indirect fire. SGT Magee, a Hattiesburg native, was assigned to the Company A, 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Georgia. SGT Magee graduated from Hattiesburg High School in 2000. His ninth grade algebra teacher, Leisha Weathersby, shared with the Associated Press that he was a sincere, hard-working young man. ``It was an honor to teach him, and I wish I had 101 students like him.'' SGT Magee was married to Courtney Magee for two months prior to his death. ``He was a great man with a big heart,'' Courtney said to the Associated Press. ``Whoever needed help, he was there to help them. He touched a lot of people's lives because he had such a big heart.'' SGT Magee's uncle, Dennis Davis, said he was one of the nicest young men with whom you would ever want to come in contact. At SGT Magee's memorial service at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kalsu's chapel, soldiers of the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, gathered to remember their fallen comrade. Colonel Robert Ashe, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, said tireless efforts were taken to save his life by other soldiers and later at the FOB Kalsu aid station. COL Ashe said his family members were able to say goodbye to SGT Magee because of this concerted effort to save his life. Our nation is blessed to have soldiers like SGT Magee who bravely fought to protect America.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Army Captain (CPT) Stephen W. Frank who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 29, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom III. CPT Frank was killed when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated as he was conducting a traffic- control- point inspection in Diyarah, Iraq. Also killed was Captain Ralph J. Harting, III. They were among an estimated 50 people to die that day in bombings carried out by insurgents trying to disrupt Iraq's newly formed government. CPT Frank was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, which was attached to the 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) from Mississippi. CPT Frank was born in Lyndhurst, Ohio and then raised in Lansing, Michigan. He graduated from Haslett High School. CPT Frank earned a geography degree from the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY. CPT Frank and CPT Harting, a Michigan native, were college classmates. Shortly after learning of their son's death, CPT Frank's parents, Bill and Sue Frank, invited the Hartings to their home to trade stories and photos of their sons. ``We talked about how we wished it was us to go first,'' Sue Frank told the Detroit Free Press. ``We were glad that the boys were not alone when they died. It was a comforting conversation, and we had an immediate bonding over the most tragic thing that could happen in your life. It's good to know that the Hartings are only two miles away.'' A memorial service was held at Fort Irwin, California, where both men were based. CPT Frank and CPT Harting were buried in a May 14 ceremony at West Point. CPT Frank's survivors included his wife, Laurel, a 2-year-old son, and his parents, Bill and Sue Frank. The sacrifice of these brave soldiers will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Marine Corps Master Sergeant (MSgt) Scott Eugene Pruitt who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 28, 2012, during Operation Enduring Freedom. MSgt Pruitt was killed in action by enemy fire when his vehicle was struck by a roadside improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations in Nimroz Province, Afghanistan. This was his first deployment. MSgt Pruitt, a Gautier native, was assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. MSgt Pruitt was a financial management Marine for 18 years and also an instructor with the Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools. He volunteered to go on deployment with his junior Marines. MSgt Pruitt was honored for his sacrifice by family, friends, and fellow service members during a memorial service held at the base auditorium at Camp Johnson, a satellite installation of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune on May 31, 2012. ``He not only wanted to deploy as a Marine,'' said Lydia Hobson, MSgt Pruitt's mother, ``but as a human being. He wanted to help the people and children over there. When he got to Afghanistan, he asked me to send him crayons and coloring books for the children in the hospital because they didn't have the things American children had. He was a great man.'' ``Pruitt never stopped surprising me,'' retired Master Sergeant Ron Scott, one of Pruitt's mentors said. ``I had a special bond with him. He grew from this young, wide-eyed kid to someone I called a brother.'' MSgt Pruitt was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice. He was also recognized by the Marine Corps Combat Service Support School ``Wall of Heroes'' where his memorial frame was placed. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has designated a section of U.S. Highway 90 in Gautier as the Scott E. Pruitt Memorial Highway. MSgt Pruitt is survived by his daughters Jennifer and Jordyn, and his fiancee, Trisha Lane. MSgt Pruitt's dedication to protecting our nation will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Army Captain (CPT) Ralph John Harting III, who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 29, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. CPT Harting was killed when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device was detonated by a suicide bomber as he was conducting a traffic-control-point inspection in Diyarah, Iraq. Also killed was Captain Stephen W. Frank. CPT Harting and CPT Stephen W. Frank were among an estimated 50 people who died that day in bombings carried out by insurgents trying to disrupt the newly formed Iraqi government. CPT Harting was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, which was attached to the 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) from Mississippi. CPT Harting was born in Pontiac, Michigan and raised in Union Lake. Jay, as he was known to family and friends, applied to all four service academies and was accepted at each one. He enrolled at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York. CPT Harting graduated with a mechanical engineering degree in 1998. CPT Harting and CPT Frank were classmates in college as well as Michigan natives. At the time of his death, CPT Harting was survived by his wife, Jennifer, a 2-year-old daughter, a 1-year-old son, and an infant son who was born shortly after his death. When the Frank family learned of the death of their son and CPT Harting, they invited the Harting family over to share stories. ``We talked about how we wished it was us to go first,'' Sue Frank told the Detroit Free Press. ``We were glad that the boys were not alone when they died. It was a comforting conversation, and we had an immediate bonding over the most tragic thing that could happen in your life. It's good to know that the Hartings are only two miles away.'' CPT Harting and CPT Frank are both buried at the West Point Cemetery which is on the grounds of the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York. CPT Harting and CPT Frank will always be remembered for their devotion to our nation and for paying the ultimate sacrifice to protect America.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Corporal (CPL) Kevin William Prince, who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 23, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. CPL Prince was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near his humvee while on patrol in Iskandariyah, Iraq. CPL Prince, an Ohio native, was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California, which was attached to the 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) from Mississippi. He enlisted in the Army in 2001 with plans to go to college after he returned from Iraq. CPL Prince was trained to operate a Bradley Fighting Vehicle prior to his deployment to Iraq on January 9, 2005. Before he left, CPL Prince told his family he had bought a Bible to take with him. Before joining the Army, CPL Prince loved playing soccer, something he enjoyed from a young age. He worked part-time at his parent's bagel shop. His brother, Jason Prince, said Kevin was someone who really enjoyed life and loved his family. ``He was only 22. He still had a lot more life left,'' Prince shared with Associated Press. ``I want people to know he's not just a number. There's a face behind that number.'' CPL Prince is survived by his parents, Ron and Susan Price, brother and sister-in-law, Jason and Ember Prince; his maternal grandparents, William and Evelyn Martin; his paternal grandmother, Ruth Miller; aunts and uncles, Carole and Rich Frazee and Jayne and Lon Slabaugh, Rick and Susan Prince, Steve and Judy Miller, Cathy and Dennis McDonnell, Mike and Helen Miller; and cousins, Patrick, Angie, Lori, Shanese, Nicole and Morgan Slaubaugh. His dedication to protecting our nation will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Jeffrey Francis Dayton who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April, 29, 2004, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Dayton was one of eight soldiers killed by a car bomb as his unit was doing a dismounted improvised explosive device sweep in Baghdad, Iraq. SSG Dayton was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Armored Division, Baumholder, Germany. SSG Dayton entered the Army in February 1998. His family says SSG Dayton was always drawn to ``all things Army.'' He was the sixth child of Jim and Shelia Dayton. His nickname was ``Six.'' He had another nickname in the Army. Everyone in his unit called him ``Sunshine'' because of his friendly disposition and upbeat personality. SSG Dayton's brother, John Dayton, was serving with the Air Force in the Middle East at the time of his brother's death. John immediately requested to leave his post to escort his little brother's body home. He did not want his brother to make the long journey home alone. As John made his way with Jeffrey's body through airports in Frankfurt, Germany, Atlanta, and Memphis, he was amazed at the outpouring of respect he received. He shared his story with Kevin Wood, author of an article on 40 Days of Honor, a blog initiated by the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal. ``During the mission to escort my brother's body back home, the most difficult of any mission ever assigned to me, several people approached me in airports and thanked me for my service,'' John said. ``I politely thanked them, but inside I felt hollow, and guilty. It just didn't seem right that my little brother died protecting others and they were thanking me.'' When SSG Dayton's body arrived in Columbus, MS, the Columbus Police Department cleared the roads and posted an officer at each intersection. Each police officer saluted SSG Dayton. SSG Dayton is buried in Corinth, MS, in the closest military cemetery to his Caledonia home. Today, a monument stands in his honor as well in honor of SSGT Brian Freeman, who also gave his life to protect our freedoms. SSG Dayton is survived by his parents, James and Shelia Dayton, his wife Helen, and siblings; John and Jim Dayton, Joe Galbraith, Jay and Jeremy Dayton, and his sister, Joanna Gilford.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Sergeant (SGT) Henry Levon Brown who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 8, 2003, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Brown was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Field Artillery Regiment, Fort Stewart, Georgia. He was serving as a Colonel's driver at the time of his death. He was mortally wounded in an enemy rocket attack in Baghdad. SGT Brown was born September 30, 1980, in Natchez, Mississippi. He joined the military after graduating from Natchez High School in 1999. SGT Brown held the rank of Corporal with the Army's HHC 2nd Brigade Command Group when he lost his life. ``He was very proud of what he did,'' said Staff Sergeant James Dayton, who was Brown's Army supervisor for a year and a half and escorted his body to Mississippi. ``He was very sharp. He always stayed ahead of me.'' ``There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for me, and I know there wasn't anything he wouldn't have done for everyone in this room,'' said his wife, Army Specialist JoDona Brown. SGT Brown was honored by Natchez Mayor F.L. Hank Smith, members of his high school class, and Adams County supervisors. More than 1,500 people attended the spirited celebration of the soldier's life. Those at the funeral remembered Brown as a quiet, religious young man. Before joining the service, SGT Brown was a Sunday School teacher, secretary, and junior choir member at Greater New Bethel Baptist Church. SGT Brown is survived by his wife, SPC JoDona Brown, and his mother, Rhonda James-Brown and father, Elm Carter Brown.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi Navy Seaman (SN) Katrina Renee Grady who died of an intracerebral hemorrhage on April 18, 2002, during Operation Enduring Freedom. She had been onboard the USS Port Royal when she became ill. She passed away at Bethesda Naval Medical Center, MD. SN Grady was the youngest of six children raised by her mother, Mary Grady, in Greenville, Mississippi. She graduated from T.L. West High School in 1992. Following graduation from Mississippi Valley State University in 1998, SN Grady enlisted in the U.S. Navy. It was her desire to follow in the footsteps of her grandfather who served in the military and her brother, Charles Grady, who joined the Mississippi National Guard. SN Grady's mother says Katrina was a smart girl who wanted more out of life and military service was the way to accomplish that goal. ``She wanted to serve her country most of all,'' Mary said. ``She loved her work aboard ship. She was excellent.'' Hundreds of people came to the funeral which was held at the St. Mathews Methodist Church in Greenville, including her fellow service members, school teachers, and classmates. SN Grady's dedication to military service and to the protection of our nation will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen soldier Army Corporal (CPL) Tyler Joe Dickens who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 12, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom III. CPL Dickens died from injuries he sustained when a rocket-propelled grenade struck his guard tower in Al Mahmudiyah, Iraq. CPL Dickens was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Irwin, California. CPL Dickens entered active service in June 2002. He followed in the footsteps of his father, Joseph Dickens, who also served in the Army. CPL Dickens served as a sniper team leader at the time of his death. During CPL Dickens's memorial service, a letter from a superior, Captain Gary Mills, was read aloud. Mills described how proud Dickens was of his family and that he enjoyed sharing stories with his unit and pictures of his wife, Elisha, and newborn son, Austin. ``The platoon was proud when [his] son was born,'' Mills wrote. ``We would like to thank his entire family. None of us will ever forget Tyler J. Dickens.'' CPL Dickens was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. CPL Dickens's sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Specialist (SPC) Larry Kenyatta Brown who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation April 6, 2006, during Operation Iraqi Freedom III. SPC Brown was mortally wounded during a combat mission to liberate the Iraqi city of Karbala. SPC Brown was assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 414 Infantry Regiment, Fort Riley, Kansas. SPC Brown, a Jackson native, attended Bailey Magnet High School where he was a track and basketball athlete. His high school principal, Dorothy Terry, said SPC Brown was a serious young man who was kind. Terry said SPC Brown also had a great sense of humor. During the funeral held at Blacks Chapel Baptist Church, Brigadier General Frank Helmick described SPC Brown's devotion to our nation. ``Larry Brown displayed the intensive fortitude to fight and complete the mission even though it meant giving his life for our country.'' Hundreds of people came to the funeral including twenty-nine soldiers from Fort Riley. Ten soldiers from Fort Polk, Louisiana carried Brown's coffin. SPC Brown's bravery and courage in service to our nation will always be remembered.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Specialist (SPC) William Anthony Blount who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 7, 2010, in Mosul, Iraq when his vehicle was attacked with an improvised explosive device. He was 21 years old and was serving with the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division of Fort Stewart, GA. His commanding officer, 1LT Robert Wilson Collins was also killed in the attack. SPC Blount joined the military in 2009 after graduating from Petal High School in Petal, Mississippi. Following his death, the SPC William Anthony Blount Memorial Scholarship was established at Petal High School. Nate McRae, SPC Blount's brother-in-law said his brother was extremely honorable. All of his commanding officers said he was an amazing soldier and that his loss was keenly felt. The procession of SPC Blount's body from the Pine Belt Regional Airport to Moore Funeral Home, led by Mississippi Highway Patrol officers and Petal officials, travelled from Interstate 59 to Evelyn Gandy Parkway to Petal High School along Mississippi Highway 42. With flags and posters in hand, residents lined the streets, and students were released from school to view the procession. SPC Blount is survived by his wife Amanda and his daughter Avery Elizabeth Blount. He is also survived by parents, Billy and Kay Blount, and his siblings, Laken Blount and Lori McRae.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi soldier Marine Private First Class (PFC) Christopher Dale Mabry who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April, 7, 2004, during Operation Iraqi Freedom III. PFC Mabry was killed by hostile fire battling Sunni insurgents while conducting combat operations west of Baghdad in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. PFC Mabry, a Chunky native, was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. PFC Mabry enlisted in the Marines the last year of high school at Clarkdale Attendance Center. While in high school, PFC Mabry excelled in track and once placed second in the 400-meter sprint at a track meet in Carthage in 2002. PFC Mabry, a high school senior defensive back, led the football team to a district championship and to the state playoffs. Football team member, Spencer Robinson, remembers Mabry's dedication. ``He was the leader of the team,'' Robinson said. ``Everyone followed him. He was the hardest worker in the weight room and the most energetic athlete.'' On the day of his funeral, 300 people attended the funeral at the First Baptist Church. Cars lined the streets leading to the church. An American flag was raised on the ladder of a fire truck. Clarkdale Attendance Center students were excused from class to pay their respects. PFC Mabry's grandmother, Frances Mabry, will never forget the response from the community. ``I'm not surprised at the turnout,'' Mabry said. ``I know he's proud of all the people being here. I know Chris is happy about that.'' PFC Mabry proudly served our nation. His devotion to protecting the freedoms we all enjoy will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Jerry Clark ``Chip'' Burge, Junior who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our nation on April 4, 2007, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SSG Burge was mortally wounded when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle. SSG Burge and Corporal Joseph H. Cantrell IV, of Ashland, Kentucky, were both killed by the blast. Prior to his death, SSG Burge received a Purple Heart for being wounded during a previous deployment in Kosovo. It was during that tour that SSG Burge, a demolitions expert and engineer, was investigating a bomb in a house when it exploded. He suffered damage to his eyesight and hearing. He also received a concussion. At the time of his death, SSG Burge was serving his second tour of duty. SSG Burge, a Picayune native, was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, Fort Hood, Texas. SSG Burge's aunt, Bobbi Kenney, told a local newspaper that her nephew was a soldier who knew the risks associated with his job, but was willing to take the risks in order to serve his country. Picayune American history teacher Allison Wheat remembers the day of SSG Burge's funeral procession. The whole student body of Picayune High School and members of the community attended in order to pay their respects. In memory of SSG Burge, Wheat's students began hosting a luncheon on Veterans Day to honor veterans and their families. SSG Burge's family attends the luncheon every year. What began with ten veterans has grown to more than 100 in attendance. SSG Burge will always be remembered as a tough soldier and leader, and at the same time, a great father of three. His devotion to protecting our freedoms will not be forgotten.

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi

Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in memory of Marine Staff Sergeant (SSG) Jason Aaron Rogers who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our great nation on April 7, 2011. SSG Rogers was killed in Northern Helmand Province, Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was clearing a path for wounded marines in a live mine field during combat operations. He was assigned to the 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. SSG Rogers was born on April 9, 1982, in Jackson, MS. He graduated from Brandon High School in 2000. Shortly after September 11, 2001, SSG Rogers joined the Marine Corps, where he served eight years. He was deployed on six overseas assignments, five of which were combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was 28 years old at the time of his death. SSG Rogers' mother, Jenny Smith, recently said, ``I'm extremely proud. He was proud to serve our country. He had a calling to offer his life for friends and family. He loved America. Every year, we hold the Annual Running for Jason 5K Run/Walk in Brandon to honor his service.'' Mayor Tim Coulter of Brandon, Mississippi said, ``We are saddened by the death of one of our hometown heroes, Jason Rogers, a brave man of character. He will be missed by our city and our hearts and prayers are with his family at this time.'' Brandon Winfield, a childhood friend of SSG Rogers said, ``The loss of Jason Rogers is going to make this world an emptier and lonelier and colder place. I could write a War and Peace sized story of the kind of person he was. Some people have it; the room just seemed to be dizzier and brighter with him in it.'' SSG Rogers is survived by wife Angela Rita Marie Rogers. He is also survived by his parents, Jennifer and William Smith, and Liz and Tracy Aaron Rogers.