IN HONOR OF MATTHEW W. FREEMAN

______

HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

of Texas

in the House of Representatives

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man, like

so many others in our Nation, who were truly American: Matthew Walden

Freeman.

Although I did not personally know Midshipman Matthew Freeman, I knew

of his valor and patriotism. His passing is somberly remembered by

those who knew him best. A senior at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

in New York, Matt had shown a dedication to service his entire life. A

graduate of Ryan High School in Denton, Matt was honored to be awarded

status as an Eagle Scout.

While Midshipman Freeman was not activated, he was a reservist and

served as Navy Second Class. During his time at the Academy, Midshipman

Freeman devoted time and effort into helping others. The Superintendent

of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) issued an Academy

Achievement Ribbon for Meritorious Service to Matt for his waterborne

rescue and relief efforts following the terrorist attack on the World

Trade Center in New York City. As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Matt interfaced with the midshipmen volunteers who manned Academy

vessels used to ferry firefighters, rescue personnel and emergency

equipment throughout New York Harbor in support of the New York City

Fire Department's emergency operations. He personally participated in

three watch tours and spent over 40 hours on the scene. As an EMT, he

provided first-aid services to firefighters working ashore near the

disaster and to midshipmen rescue personnel traveling aboard Academy

vessels. He also helped manage the EMT watch throughout the Academy's

operation and assisted with their blood drive on 9/11.

Along with the 89 other midshipmen participants, he displayed the

highest levels of leadership, professionalism and compassion and served

as an inspiration to his peers during the difficult days of the rescue

and recovery operation. Through his unselfish service, Midshipman

Freeman brought great credit to the Regiment of Midshipmen during a

time on national crisis and served as role model to his fellow

midshipmen, the 4th class in particular. His actions were in keeping

with the highest traditions of the Regiment of Midshipmen and the

USMMA. He received a citation for outstanding performance in support of

Operation Guarding Liberty, following the attack on WTC.

Today, we honor Matt Freeman for his commitment to America. I want

you to know, on behalf of a grateful Nation, we say, "Thank you." He

will always be remembered for his kindness and generosity to others,

and may he serve as a role model for others in the future.

[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 70 (Tuesday, May 24, 2005)]