WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator John Boozman recognized the sacrifice of Army SGT Joseph Richardson, a graduate of Booneville High School, who was assigned to A Company, 1^st Battalion, 28^th Infantry Regiment, 1^st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas and died from injuries he suffered from an improvised explosive device on November 16, 2012. 

You can watch the speech here.The following is Boozman’s speech as prepared for delivery.   

Mr. President, the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform are selfless heroes who embody the American spirit, courage, honor and patriotism. We must always remember to honor those who risk their lives to protect our country because our troops have given the greatest sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. 

Today I am here to pay my respects to Army Sergeant Joseph A. Richardson, an Arkansas soldier who sacrificed his life for his country while in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. 

As a student at Booneville High School in Booneville, Arkansas, SGT Richardson took an interest in the military. His guidance counselor told Arkansas media outlets that during his sophomore year he became interested in military service and was anxious to take the necessary entrance exams even a year before he could qualify. “He felt like it was going to be an honor to serve his country,” his counselor said. In 2008, he joined the Army. 

His passion for his service to his country remained constant. SGT Richardson’s family said he loved his job; he loved fighting for his country and our freedom.  He liked it so much, he recently reenlisted for six more years of service in the Army.  

While SGT Richardson’s desire to serve his country was well-known, so was his enthusiasm for life. His family and friends describe SGT Richardson as a kind-hearted man who always put others first and made those around him laugh.  

As a member of A Company, 1^st Battalion, 28^th Infantry Regiment, 1^st Infantry Division, Fort Riley Kansans, 23-year-old SGT Richardson gave his life on November 16, 2012 for his country while on a patrol in Afghanistan. 

Mr. President, SGT Joseph Richardson is a true American hero who paid the ultimate sacrifice. I ask my colleagues to keep his wife Ashley and the rest of his family and friends in their thoughts and prayers during this time. On behalf of a grateful nation, I humbly offer my sincerest gratitude for his patriotism and selfless service.