MR. BERRY.  Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today on behalf of Congress to thank Arkansas' 39th Infantry Brigade for their service in Iraq and to welcome them home.  A Over the last year, the men and women of the 39th have worked to make a positive difference in the lives of the Iraqi people. They have faced their duties bravely, performed honorably and made a difference in the development of an emerging country.

There is no doubt the 39th has lived up to the badge it proudly bares. Forceful and strong is why Iraq is better today than it was in April of 2004 when our brave men and women first pulled into Camp Taji. Forceful and strong is how they did their job in the most hostile environment, every day, for a year. Forceful and strong is why their families can wrap their arms around them now and welcome them home.

The efforts of the 39th have resulted in reconstructed Iraqi schools, hospitals, irrigation and sewage systems, and new recreational projects for children. The footprint they left in the Iraqi sand is far deeper than their boot size; and the sacrifice made by too many not coming home will never be forgotten.  We must take a moment, as we celebrate the return of our loved ones, to think of those less fortunate. Those who gave their lives defending strangers to ensure peace have made the noblest of sacrifices. They will be missed by their families and friends and honored by their country. We pray every day for those who loved them and thank them all for what they've left us with.

On behalf of the Congress, I thank all the members of the 39th Infantry Brigade for the immeasurable contributions they have made to peace, democracy and the Iraqi people. Their bravery and courage stand as a shining example of American ability and our debt to them can never fully be repaid.