STATEHOUSE (March 24, 2009) - Rep. Jacque Clements (R-Frankfort) today joined the Indiana General Assembly in honoring the families of Indiana soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending their country, especially those fighting the war on terrorism. In a resolution, the Indiana General Assembly offered gratitude and prayers to the families of the 152 fallen men and women from Indiana. As part of the ceremony, the families were invited into the House chamber for the reading of the resolution. Following this reading, the names of the soldiers were read and Major General R. Martin Umbarger spoke before the assembly. "As the names were read, tears filled my eyes along with the eyes of other members of the assembly," said Rep. Clements. "How proud the families must be of their loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The resolution today is just one step to show the families we appreciate their sacrifice and know their loved ones will always be remembered. Rep. Clements represents parts of Boone, Clinton, Hamilton and Howard counties. The names of nine soldiers from these Indiana counties were read to the House. Boone County Army Spc. Joseph A.L. Strong, age 21. Joseph gave his life on Dec. 26, 2006, in Iraq. Hamilton County Army National Guard Sgt. Armand "Luke" Frickey, age 2. Luke gave his life on Jan. 6, 2005, in Iraq. Army Pfc. Robert W. Murray, age 21. Robert gave his life on April 28, 2005, in Iraq. Army National Guard Sgt. Gerald J. Cassidy, age 32. Gerald gave his life on Sept. 25, 2007, in Iraq. Howard County Army National Guard Spc. Brian M. Clemens, age 19. Clemens gave his life on Feb. 6, 2003, in Kuwait. Marine Lance Cpl. James E. Swain, age 20. James gave his life on Nov.15, 2004, in Iraq. Army Sgt. Rickey Jones, age 21. Rickey gave his life on Feb. 22, 2006, in Iraq. Army Pfc. Nathan J. Frigo, age 23. Nathan gave his life on Oct. 17, 2006, in Iraq. Army Pfc. David N. Simmons, age 20. David gave his life on April 8, 2007, in Iraq. The resolution concluded with the ceremonial playing of taps. -30-
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