Political Quotes

“Mr. President, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and heroic service of SGT Jason T. Smith. Sergeant Smith, assigned to the 1st Explosive Ordnance Company, based in Iwakuni, Japan, died on November 19, 2010, from wounds he received while serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He was 28 years old. A native of Colorado Springs, CO, Sergeant Smith graduated from Doherty High School in 2000. Upon graduation, Sergeant Smith enlisted in the Marines and was quickly recognized as a skilled and composed soldier. He served three tours of duty: two in Iraq and one in Afghanistan all with decoration. During his 10 years of service, Sergeant Smith distinguished himself through his courage, dedication to duty, and willingness to take on one of the most dangerous and skillful jobs in the Marines--defusing bombs. Fellow soldiers respected his intensity, and they relied heavily on his leadership. Sergeant Smith was also a gifted teacher, and Marines under his command cite his marksmanship instruction as a high-point in their career. Sergeant Smith worked on the front lines of battle, serving in the most dangerous areas of Iraq and Afghanistan. He is remembered by those who knew him as a consummate professional with an unending commitment to excellence. His family remembers him as a dedicated son, brother, and as a loving husband to his wife. In his free time, Sergeant Smith enjoyed fishing and playing basketball.…”