Jun 29 2012

They Died in Service of Their Country Serving a Cause Greater Than Themselves

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement in memory of three members of the South Carolina National Guard who were killed by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan and will be laid to rest this weekend.

"This weekend South Carolina will lay to rest three of her finest, Lt. Ryan Davis Rawl of Lexington, Sgt. 1st Class Brad Thomas of Easley, and Sgt. John "J.D." David Meador, II of Columbia. They were brave young men, with loving families, who volunteered to fight for their country.

"Having been to Iraq and Afghanistan dozens of times, I always leave deeply impressed by the professionalism, commitment and sacrifice of those who serve our nation in uniform. They are committed to confronting radical Islam over there, far from home, so they can't hurt us here. These three young men died in service of their country serving a cause greater than themselves.

"The sacrifices they and their loved ones have made in defense of our nation are beyond comprehension. May God grant them eternal rest and peace. And bless their families with healing and understanding."

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Audio/Video of Graham Speaking on the Senate Floor: http://youtu.be/DUIVn8GHwjo