Byron Dorgan: “while I know there are some who may have different views about what is happening in Iraq and our country's role in it, I…”

“while I know there are some who may have different views about what is happening in Iraq and our country's role in it, I think there is really no disagreement in our country about what our sons and daughters do for America when they are sent to fight for freedom. There should be no disagreement about our support for the troops that are in harm's way halfway across the world. My colleague from Nevada and others have spoken eloquently about the commitment these young men and women have made to their country. They leave home, they leave the comforts of their community, they leave their family, and they march in the face of danger. This morning I went to Bethesda Naval Hospital to visit a young man whom I had appointed to the Naval Academy some 12 years ago. His name is Jason Frei from Hazen, ND. A wonderful young man, he has kept in touch with me each year since he graduated from the Naval Academy, sending me Christmas cards, telling me how he is doing and what he is doing. He left his wife and two children to go to Iraq with his Marine unit. Jason was wounded last week and is now back at Bethesda Naval Hospital. He has lost a part of his arm. His eardrum was punctured. He was injured by a rocket-propelled grenade when it hit his vehicle. He is a remarkable man. This morning he was very positive. He was in good spirits and he told me about the men and women with whom he served.…”