Phil Gingrey: “Mr. Speaker I rise today to honor Lance Corporal David Payton, a 21-year-old Marine who was injured while serving our…”

“Mr. Speaker I rise today to honor Lance Corporal David Payton, a 21-year-old Marine who was injured while serving our country in Iraq. On January 30, the same day that millions of Iraqis voted in the country's first free and successful elections, Corporal Payton's compound in Fallujah was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, which left him with severe burns and scarred lungs from chemical inhalation. He was released from the hospital last week and is continuing his recovery at home in Powder Springs, Georgia, in my 11th Congressional District. I had the opportunity to visit with Corporal Payton on Friday, and I was impressed by his courage and commitment to this country. Corporal Payton is a former high school wrestling champion; and let me tell you, he is a fighter. He exemplifies what it means to be a soldier, willing to put your life on the line so others can be free. The Iraqi people are now on the path of freedom and democracy, and Corporal Payton and all of our war fighters deserve our deepest gratitude for the work they have done to secure America and to spread liberty throughout the world. Mr. Speaker, I ask that Members join me in wishing Lance Corporal David Payton a speedy recovery.”