Chuck Grassley: “I rise today to salute an extraordinary native Iowan who has fallen in service to his country in support of Operation…”

“I rise today to salute an extraordinary native Iowan who has fallen in service to his country in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. PFC Eric P. Woods, of the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, died on the 9th day of July, 2005, in Tal Afar, Iraq, due to injuries sustained when an explosive device detonated under his vehicle. Woods, a combat medic was killed en route to aid an injured soldier. My prayers go out to his wife Jamie, his 3- year-old son Eric Scott, his parents Charles and Janis Woods, and his many other friends and family. Eric Woods grew up in Urbandale, IA, and was an active member in the youth group at Westchester Evangelical Free Church. At Urbandale High School he wrestled and played football and baseball before graduating in 1997. While attending Iowa State University, he became manager of Krause Gentle Company. After a move to Omaha, Eric became a medic in the U.S. Army. Private First Class Woods was a truly thoughtful soldier, requesting packages from home containing soccer balls, candy, and toys to give out to the children of Iraq. He will be remembered not only for his sacrifice for freedom but also the way in which he served, giving his life on the way to help an injured fellow soldier. Recently, his pastor said of Eric: ``His motto was to charge, not retreat. He squeezed the most out of life.'' Again my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.…”