Ron Kind: “I thank my good friend from North Carolina for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Jason…”

“I thank my good friend from North Carolina for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Jason Simcakoski PROMISE Act. Jason was a veteran who unfortunately saw his life end way too soon while receiving treatment at the Tomah VA Medical Center in the heart of my congressional district. I want to thank, first of all, Subcommittee Chairman Bilirakis for the leadership and support that he has shown this legislation. He has been a real joy to work with. I want to thank Chairman Miller for the leadership he has provided the committee and for the concern and the attention that he has given to all of our veterans throughout our country. I want to thank Representative Butterfield and the other members of the committee for the strong bipartisan support that this legislation enjoys on the floor today. Jason was born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, in 1978 in my congressional district. He is the son of Marvin and Linda Simcakoski. He is a graduate of Stevens Point Pacelli High School. Shortly after his graduation, he joined the Marine Corps, where he reached the rank of corporal, receiving the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with one star, a Certificate of Commendation, the Rifle Sharp Shooters Badge, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in February of 2002. Jason loved being a marine, and he was very proud to serve his country. He married Heather in 2010 in Stevens Point, and they had a beautiful daughter named Anaya.…”