Mr. President, today I join my colleagues to honor the service and sacrifice of members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans, and Gold Star families, and to commemorate the men and women in uniform who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our Nation. Since the earliest days of this country, we have been blessed by selfless men and women who have run toward, not away from, mortal danger. Driven by a profound sense of patriotism, they laid down their own lives to defend the freedoms that define our Nation. That level of courage is difficult to comprehend and impossible to repay. Therefore, we show our gratitude by remembering these heroes-- their bravery, their strength, and their hope--and also the sacrifices of the loved ones who have lost family members in uniform. One such hero is SFC John David Randolph Hilty from Bowie, MD. Sergeant Hilty was serving in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, helping to defeat ISIL, when he died this past March 30, 2020. This was after completing three previous tours to Afghanistan and earning several awards for his valiant service, including the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Joint Service Achievement Medal. Those who knew Sergeant Hilty remember him as a devoted son, husband, father, a tremendous leader, and a dear friend. I am thankful for Sergeant Hilty's service to our country and so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful member of our community.…
Share & report
More from Ben Cardin
Madam President, I rise today to recognize the four members of the 2024 USA Biolympiad (USABO) team. At the 35th International Biolympiad held in Astana, Kazakhstan, each of the four members were awarded a gold medal. I am pleased to honor…
Madam President, I rise in recognition of Constitution Week, recognized from September 17 through September 23. Since 1956, Congress has recognized an annual Constitution Week in recognition of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in…
Madam President, I am pleased to join the Maryland delegation in introducing legislation to honor Supreme Court Justice and civil rights icon Thurgood Marshall. Today, we seek to honor the legacy of a great Marylander who had a tremendous…
Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during…





