Jeanne Shaheen: “I rise today with deep sadness to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of Army SPC Nicholas P. Bernier, who died on…”

“I rise today with deep sadness to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of Army SPC Nicholas P. Bernier, who died on June 25, 2011, from injuries sustained during combat in Kherwar, Afghanistan, while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Specialist Bernier was a combat medic with Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division based out of Fort Polk, LA. A native of East Kingston, NH, and 2007 graduate of Exeter High School, Nicholas or Nick, as he was called by those who knew him, enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduation. Prior to his deployment to Afghanistan in October 2010, Nick provided medical care in Texas to wounded soldiers who had returned from overseas. From a very young age, Nick stood out in his tight-knit community for his desire to help others. It was, therefore, no surprise to his friends and family when he answered the call to serve his country, to protect his fellow Americans, and to care for his brothers in arms as a medic on the frontlines in Afghanistan. This last assignment was, in fact, a natural fit for him. Our Nation can never adequately thank Nick for his willingness to serve and to make the ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms we hold dear.…”