On the recordMay 20, 2015
Today it is with great sorrow that I rise to mark the loss of one of Aurora's brightest lights. On May 12, 2015, while performing relief work following the Nepal earthquake, Corporal Sara Abigail Medina and five other marines tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash. Corporal Medina was from Aurora, Illinois, and graduated from East Aurora High School in 2010. While still in high school, she decided to serve her country by joining the Marines. In the face of such a tragedy, we often ask why; and to paraphrase the President, whenever a disaster strikes, the world looks to America to lead because of our extraordinary people who rise to the challenge. As a father, I know that no words that I say on this floor will be able to fill the hole in the hearts of all those who knew and loved Sara, but still we must speak because all should know that Corporal Sara Medina gave her last full measure of devotion in service to her country, helping those who needed it most. For her sacrifice and for her family's terrible loss, we offer our condolences and thanks of a grateful nation. ____________________
