Tom Emmer: “On December 5, Minnesotans learned of the disappearance of a Minnesota National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter…”

“On December 5, Minnesotans learned of the disappearance of a Minnesota National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter carrying three National Guardsmen during a maintenance test flight. Unfortunately, this fateful flight, which originated from St. Cloud, Minnesota, saw the lives of Chief Warrant Officer 2 James A. Rogers, Jr., Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles P. Nord, and Sergeant Kort M. Plantenberg all tragically lost that day. Today my colleagues and I join together to honor the memories of these brave Minnesotans and to send our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones. Whether deployed overseas or training here at home, members of our Armed Forces routinely put their lives at risk to ensure the safety and security of our Nation. We pray these families are able to find some peace and comfort during this tragic time and that they know that their fellow Minnesotans and their Nation mourn with them. We are eternally grateful for their loved ones' sacrifice and service to our great State of Minnesota and to the Nation. Their memories and legacies will never be forgotten. In honor of James A. Rogers, Jr., Charles P. Nord, and Kort M. Plantenberg, I ask that all Members and guests in the gallery rise for a moment of silence to honor these heroes. ____________________”