Jim Ryun: “I rise today on behalf of a true patriot. It will soon be July 4, a date etched in America's heart. A day that serves as…”

“I rise today on behalf of a true patriot. It will soon be July 4, a date etched in America's heart. A day that serves as a time of reflection and celebration in the memory of sacrifices made; sacrifices made throughout history that granted us the freedoms that we enjoy today. As our Nation celebrates our independence, it seems appropriate to pay tribute to an Army sergeant that meant a great deal to Kansas and our country. Sergeant Jacob Butler, from Wellsville, Kansas, joined the Army as a private at the young age of 19. He later rose to the rank of sergeant and accepted the demanding task of a scout. Unfortunately, Jacob Butler was killed April 1 when a rocket propelled grenade hit his vehicle in Iraq. It was an honor to attend Jacob's memorial service and funeral with his parents, Jim and Cindy, his friends, his family, and his fellow soldiers. The ceremony reminded me once again that great sacrifices for the causes of freedom did not end on July 4, 1776. Sacrifices continue today. Jacob is no longer only a blessing to his friends and family, he is now a blessing to an entire Nation. On behalf of the people of Kansas and this grateful Nation, I ask that we remember Sergeant Jacob Butler as a son, a friend, a soldier, and a patriot.”