On the recordNovember 17, 2016
I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of an Alabama patriot and American hero, Johnny Michael Spann. Nearly 15 years ago, on November 25, 2001, while fighting on behalf of our grateful Nation, Mike made the ultimate sacrifice to our country in northern Afghanistan. Mike Spann served as a U.S. Marine officer and then later with the CIA, when he became the first U.S. combat casualty in the War on Terror in Afghanistan. As Americans we honored the sacrifices made by those who have served and defended our Nation on Veterans Day last week. Mike Spann is one of the heroic Americans who ran towards danger, putting his life on the line to fight for our freedom. Mike Spann was dedicated to combating the tyranny, oppression, and terror that would be inflicted on the world by the Taliban and others who share their goals. He gave his life to a noble undertaking, and our Nation will be forever indebted to him and his family for his service. It is my honor to offer my deep appreciation and gratitude to Mike Spann for his willingness to put himself in harm's way to protect the values and freedoms that we hold dear. His life exemplified honor and courage, and he will always be remembered for his great sacrifice.…
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