HON. DEAN HELLER

OF NEVADA

IN THE UNITED STATES SENATE

December 13^th, 2012

Mr. HELLER:  Mr. President, I rise today to welcome home some of our nation’s greatest service members.  This weekend, 29 soldiers from the great State of Nevada will be reunited with their families and loved ones after a grueling nine-month tour in Afghanistan.  They have served our country with honor and I am proud to welcome them home to the Silver State.

Nevada is grateful to these soldiers for their unwavering commitment to America.  I want to thank them for fighting bravely for this nation.  I am humbled for their service to our country and it is privilege to help welcome them home.

Earlier this year, the North Las Vegas-based Army Reserve Delta Company, 405^th Civil Affairs Battalion was deployed to fight the war in Afghanistan.  Each and every day of their tour, this company faced dangerous situations in order to our protect freedom and democracy.  Participating in missions to some of the most volatile provinces of eastern Afghanistan, they encountered deadly firefights and roadside bombs.  This company’s courageous acts have been awarded with five Purple Heart medals, 18 Army Commendation medals, and seven Bronze Star medals for meritorious service. These decorated soldiers have made significant sacrifices for our country, and I am so grateful they have the opportunity to return home to their families.

The brave men and women in our Armed Forces have made grave sacrifices on behalf of our nation and we owe them a debt of gratitude. The families of our troops also deserve our heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering strength and support.