On the recordMay 14, 2012
I rise to commend the members of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division from Fort Wainwright, AK upon completion of their deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. I am pleased to offer a resolution with Senator Lisa Murkowski to recognize the service of these Arctic Wolves and honor the 21 brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the Nation. Deployed to Kandahar, one of the most volatile areas of Afghanistan, the 1/25 SBCT conducted more than 7,500 patrols and over 60 named operations. They made significant gains against insurgents in the Southern region. Our nation will forever be grateful to them and we will never forget those who perished or were wounded during their tour. We must also never forget Private Danny Chen. While the actions of those involved in the maltreatment of Private Chen are not a reflection of the honorable service of thousands of others in the brigade, abuse and hazing of another individual must never be tolerated under any circumstances. Private Chen was a son, he was a friend, he was a soldier. He will be remembered. I also want to thank the families of the Arctic Wolves for their service and sacrifice. The support of their loved ones gives strength to our military. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking the Arctic Wolves and their families for the sacrifices they make every day on behalf of our country. ____________________
