Political Quotes

“It is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life of an American soldier from Homer Glen, Illinois, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of his country. Private First Class Michael C. Olivieri was a dedicated soldier serving his first tour of duty in Baghdad where he was helping to train and support the Iraqi police. On June 6, his base came under attack, resulting in the death of five soldiers, including Michael. Last week would have marked Michael's first wedding anniversary, which he had hoped to celebrate during a scheduled visit home. During that same visit, he was to attend his sister's wedding. Mr. Speaker, Michael was a caring husband, a loving son and grandson, a beloved sibling, and a dear friend to countless members of the Homer Glen community. A 2002 graduate of Lockport Township High School, Michael attended Southern Illinois University and went on to enlist in the U.S. Army, where his talents and leadership were on full display. Often playing the guitar for his buddies in the field, Michael was well known for lifting the spirits of his fellow soldiers, and he will be missed dearly by those who knew and loved him. Today I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Sharon; his parents, Michael and Jody; his sisters, Abby and Ashley, his brother, Joe; and his grandparents, Joseph and Adelaide Olivieri and Dorothy Riegel. Private Michael C. Olivieri was a great man, a distinguished soldier, and a true American hero.…”