Political Quotes

“today I have the great privilege of presenting a poem in memory of LCpl Lawrence R. Philippon of West Hartford, CT, who gave his life 8 years ago this May while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom as a courageous member of the United States Marines. In the Marine Corps color guard, Lance Corporal Philippon carried the flag at the funeral for President Reagan, but yearned to be on the front lines. It was there, as a brave member of the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine expeditionary force that he made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. As Memorial Day nears, we dedicate ourselves in gratitude to our heroes--our servicemen and women, both recent and throughout history-- who have sacrificed and served for our freedom, protecting the founding principles we hold dear. This special poem was written by Albert Carey Caswell, a longtime member of the Capitol Guide Service, and prolific poet whose work has been recited many times on the Senate floor. It is a privilege to present Bert's touching piece, written in memory of Lance Corporal Philippon. I invite my colleagues to remember and honor Lance Corporal Philippon and all current and former members of the military, and their families, today and always. This Is My Blood This . . . This Is My Blood, that I so bled! ALLELUIA! And this is my life, that I so led! ALLELUIA! And these are all of the moments, which I no longer so have! ALLELUIA! As for you, I so gave up all that I had! ALLELUIA!…”