The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE AND SACRIFICE OF MARINE LANCE CORPORAL RYLEE McCOLLUM
______
HON. LIZ CHENEY
of wyoming
in the house of representatives
Friday, September 17, 2021
Ms. CHENEY. Madame Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and sacrifice of Marine Lance Corporal Rylee McCollum.
Rylee was a beloved son, brother, friend, husband, and soon-to-be father who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms and defending our interests while serving in Afghanistan.
His family remembers him as someone who was wholly intolerant of injustice and stood up for those who could not stand up for themselves. He was a deeply patriotic young man who had a passion for learning. Specifically, he was interested in the ceremonies that encompassed our Nation's most sacred traditions. As his father remarked ``He's the most patriotic kid you could find, loved America, loved the military. Tough as nails with a heart of gold.''
His willingness to put himself in harm's way to keep our country safe and preserve our freedom represents a level of selflessness and heroism that embodies the best of America.
Rylee was a native of Bondurant, Wyoming, and demonstrated an interest in joining the Armed Services from an early age. He attended Jackson Hole High School, where he became a decorated wrestler, and later went on to graduate from Summit Innovations School in Jackson in 2019. It was no surprise to his friends and family when right after graduation, on his 18th birthday, he followed through on his determination to serve this Nation at the highest level by enlisting in the U.S. Marines.
Rylee McCollum died a hero, and his bravery will never be forgotten. I want to thank him for his service to our country and express the deepest condolences of the entire Congress to his family and loved ones.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 161
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
Alerts Sign-up