Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of West Point Cadet Tom Surdyke from Festus, Missouri. I had the honor to appoint Tom to West Point in 2015 and to share in his family's celebration the day he earned his Eagle Scout. Tom was a member of Missouri Boys State and an honor student at St. Pius High School. He was the proud son of Tim and Janice Surdyke and the beloved brother of Elaine, Rosemary, and Francie. Tom chose a life of service at West Point, and in his death, he proved that serving others was always in his heart. While on vacation on June 24, 2016, Tom and another swimmer he had just met on shore were caught in a riptide. Tom instinctively went to the other young man who could not swim, keeping him afloat. But Tom was pulled under. Tom died in the hospital 4 days later. Continuing his ultimate goal to serve, Tom donated his organs. He was buried at West Point on July 4, 2016--on his 19th birthday. He was given the Soldier's Medal, the Army's highest non-combat valor award because he saved the life of another. I grieve the loss of this gifted young man who would have no doubt distinguished himself in a life of military service. But, today, I celebrate Tom Surdyke's spirit, his character, and the selfless act that distinguished him in death. ____________________”