Jim Ramstad: “the people of Eden Prairie, Minnesota are in mourning today as they grieve the loss of a favorite son, West Point Cadet…”

“the people of Eden Prairie, Minnesota are in mourning today as they grieve the loss of a favorite son, West Point Cadet John Heinmiller. There are no words to adequately convey our sympathy to Cadet Heinmiller's family. Our hearts and prayers go out to John's father John, his mother Julie, and younger brothers and sister Joe, Jimmy and Sue, on Cadet Heinmiller's tragic death early Sunday in Garrison, New York. John's loving family and countless friends are in shock over the passing of this remarkable young man who ``left an indelible mark on friends, coaches and teachers,'' to quote from today's front page article in the Star Tribune. Mr. Speaker, John's death is not only a great tragedy for his wonderful family, but also a great tragedy for Eden Prairie High School and the United States Military Academy. John was loved and respected by everyone who knew him. Of the several hundred service academy nominations that I have made over the past decade, John truly stands out for his remarkable personal qualities. John was not only a star in hockey, football and the classroom, John was a star in the way he conducted his life. As I said, when I nominated John to West Point: ``John Heinmiller is destined for success at the Military Academy and beyond because he has it all: highly intelligent, a great student athlete, personally charming, a quick wit and, most importantly, integrity and character that we need in our future leaders.''”