South Bend, Ind. – Today, Congressman Joe Donnelly released the following statement to commemorate Memorial Day:
“Today, I join Americans in celebrating those who gave their lives while serving with the Armed Forces. We are deeply indebted to those who have given their lives so that we can live free in this great country. I am proud to honor these men and women and remember their sacrifices.
“This past year, we lost one of our own from the Second District of Indiana. Specialist Robert Tauteris Jr. of Hamlet, Indiana, a proud member of the Indiana National Guard, died on January 6, 2012, in Afghanistan after his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.
“Specialist Tauteris had already served one tour in Afghanistan with the National Guard, when he volunteered for his second deployment after his son, Robert Tauteris III, enlisted. For his service to our country, Specialist Tauteris was honored with the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart, in addition to many other honors.
“We owe Specialist Tauteris a debt of gratitude for his service and sacrifice. It’s clear from the fact that he volunteered for his second deployment after his son enlisted that he loved his country and his family enormously. He is missed by all.
“We are in debt to all the men and women from our district and from Indiana whose lives have been lost in Iraq and Afghanistan. We are in debt to all our fallen heroes from Indiana and our country who have given us our freedom.
“May God bless our fallen heroes and may He comfort their loved ones.”
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