Mike Thompson: “I join Chairman Spence and Ranking member Skelton, and all Americans, in honoring the crew of the U.S.S. Cole and…”

“I join Chairman Spence and Ranking member Skelton, and all Americans, in honoring the crew of the U.S.S. Cole and expressing the nation's sympathies to the families of those killed or injured. Like my colleagues, I was struck by the photographs of the 17 sailors killed or presumed dead that appeared in the newspapers in the days following the terrorist attack against the Cole. Even the eldest of them--aged 35--died all too young. As has been stated elsewhere, the photos put faces to the phrase ``in harm's way.'' Particularly young faces. The phrase is also part and parcel to another: ``doing one's duty.'' We know from service members that the phrase ``doing one's duty'' is more than a combination of words. It is also reflective of a spirit, a commitment, a calling that attracts the very best of our youth to military service. And it is not a phrase not taken lightly. The crew of the U.S.S. Cole is but one of hundreds of units of men and women deployed around the world. Each knows the risk of such service. Each also knows of the contribution they make to our nation's defense and the defense of freedom around the world. But, all too often, the contribution and sacrifice these men and women make is taken for granted. Too often, we have only assembled after a tragic incident like the bombing of the Cole to belatedly express our appreciation and thanks. Let us resolve to thank the men and women of our Armed Forces everyday for their dedication, sacrifice, and courage.”