Political Quotes

“Thank you, Mr. Wenstrup, for organizing this Special Order honoring our country's heroes. It is a privilege for me to be with you tonight. As you mentioned, I come from a family with deep roots in the military. I was a pilot for 14 years, and my father was a pilot in World War II. Four of my five brothers have served in the military. I have to tell you, my time flying in the military was, in many ways, the happiest years of my life. I remember I would be up flying, and I would think I can't believe that they pay me to do this. I would do this for free if I could. In addition to my family members, three of my congressional staff are veterans. I know firsthand some of the sacrifices that come with service--the time away from family, the personal discomforts, the danger, being put in harm's way--for many of our soldiers, all to protect our Nation and to protect the freedoms of others. There have been great sacrifices in the past. Some of those we have heard about tonight. I suspect that we will probably hear about some others. I would like to mention one man from my hometown of Farmington, Utah. I think he is a great example of sacrifice and courage. His name is Lieutenant Colonel Jay Hess. He spent 5\1/2\ years as a prisoner of war at the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam war. During this time, you can imagine what he endured--starvation, beatings, isolation, and deprivations, which it is very difficult--probably impossible--for us to appreciate.…”