[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 7] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 9452] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]IN HONOR OF ARMED FORCES DAY ______ HON. NANCY E. BOYDA of kansas in the house of representatives Thursday, May 15, 2008 Mrs. BOYDA of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor all branches of the military this Armed Forces Day. I speak for Kansas and for the United States when I say that the men and women who make our country safe have earned our respect and our appreciation. Many are called upon to protect our towns, our businesses and our homes in times of crisis. When Mother Nature strikes, the National Guard absorbs the blow and ensures that life will go on as usual. Each of our military personnel has been tasked with the defense of our Nation. When terrorism, tyranny and injustice strike, the National Guard, the Army, the Navy, the Marines, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard absorb the blow so that we can remain free. Free to enjoy our values, to pursue our hopes and dreams. These service men and women have been asked to travel to Iraq or Afghanistan, to be away from their spouses, their children, their jobs--that's a lot to ask of anyone. Yet they go and they fulfill their responsibilities to their State and our country. Today we recognize these brave men and women. Every day we recognize those who serve. I want to thank them for their vital role in making this Nation the land of the brave and the home of the free. ____________________