The things they don't mention in the news...

I'm sorry, I just have to share this. 4th BDE (Brigade) had their official Welcome Home Ceremony on the 1st of July. This is the unit that Josh is part of... I just want people to know the whole deal. When they read this, it made me so super proud (like I'm not already) of all of our troops!

HON. ADAM SMITH
OF WASHINGTON
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a U.S. Army brigade from Fort Lewis, Washington, that has served with distinction in Iraq.
This month, by June 30, the last of the roughly 4,000 men and women of the 4th Brigade-2nd Infantry Division will have returned home to Ft. Lewis after completing a 15 month deployment in Iraq. The "Dragoon Raiders," as the Brigade is known, deployed to Iraq in April 2007, a month earlier than expected. This marked the Brigade’s first combat deployment.
During their deployment, the "Dragoon Raiders" supported operations in Baghdad, Baghdad’s Northern Security Belt, and the Diyala Province. The Brigade cleared 2,216 improvised explosive devices from more than 87,000 kilometers of routes, ensuring safe travel for civilians and security forces. Soldiers from the 4-2 also captured more than 1,700 detainees and 220 high-value targets during combat operations.
In tribute to their brave service, three members of the Brigade were awarded the Silver Star, the United States’ third highest award for combat valor. In addition, the Brigade was awarded the NSA Director’s Cup for Intelligence Operations. This marked the first time that an organization below the Division level was honored with this prestigious award.
Sadly, their valorous service was not without cost. In the course of their deployment, the "Dragoon Raiders" lost 54 of their comrades, with another 424 wounded. I want to express my deep condolences to the 4-2 Brigade and the families of those fallen soldiers. Their contributions and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
The men and women of the 4–2 Brigade have done everything their country has asked of them and more. We all should have the utmost respect and admiration for their service and sacrifice.
ADAM SMITH
Member of Congress