[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 397] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]IN MEMORY OF SGT. SHAWN FITZGERALD HILL ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Thursday, January 17, 2008 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on January 2nd of this year, Sergeant Shawn Hill of the South Carolina National Guard's 218th Brigade Combat Team lost his life when his Humvee was struck by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. The community of Wellford, SC, where Seargent. Hill had been an all-region football player at Byrnes High School and worked as an electrician while serving with the National Guard lost a fine citizen and friend. Sergeant Hill's funeral was attended by almost 700 people who came to honor the life and sacrifice of this brave American. His commander in the field, BG Bob Livingston described Sergeant Hill as someone who ``didn't have to go to Afghanistan, but he went because he thought it was the right thing to do.'' He further noted that it was through the courageous and selfless acts of Sergeant Hill and his fellow soldiers that parts of Afghanistan that were once considered lawless had become peaceful and safe for the citizens of Afghanistan. This success is a tribute to his life, a life that General Livingston said had ``made more of a difference than 99 percent of the people will make in their entire lifetime.'' Our thoughts and prayers are with Sergeant Hill's wife, Julie Ann, his children, and all his family, friends, and fellow soldiers of the 218th Combat Brigade during this difficult time. Sergeant Hill's death is a reminder of the tremendous sacrifice so many of our citizen- soldiers make to protect American families. His life was a testament to the strength and selfless dedication so many Americans have for the defense of liberty. We should always remain grateful for their service. ____________________