Garrett Comments in honor of a recently fallen Marine, Sergeant Christopher Richard Hrbek

Madame Speaker:
I rise today in honor of a recently fallen Marine, Sergeant Christopher Richard Hrbek.

He was a field artillery cannoneer with the 3rd Battalion, 10th Marines, out of Camp Lejeune. He was stationed in Afghanistan. Sergeant Hrbek was an active member of his community back in Westwood, New Jersey. He was a volunteer fireman for 9 years. In 2003, in response to the attacks on September 11, 2001, he enlisted with the United States Marines. He heard the call of duty and he answered it.

As a Marine, he served multiple tours of duty, which included combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. On December 23, 2009, under enemy fire, he saved the life of his sergeant major, who had stepped on an IED. For this, he was to be awarded a Bronze Star with a combat ``V.'' He then set the highest example of someone who was willing to risk his life to save the lives of others.

Sadly, on January 14, 2010, he, himself, stepped on an IED, and died in the service of his country.

He is survived by his wife, Jamie Lynn Wengerter; mother, Cheryl Hodges; stepfather, James Hodges; father, Richard Hrbek; stepmother, Gail Hrbek; two sisters, Amy Dellentash and Lori Hrbek; and two stepbrothers, Jim and Beau Hodges.

His dedication to his country and to his fellow soldiers represents his tremendous sense of loyalty and selflessness. Christopher Hrbek is a true American hero. Chris will never be forgotten by his friends, by his family or by the country he fought for.

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[KillaKliff]

I served with him in 3/10 He was a good guy ( A goof ball at times lol) but A really motivated Marine who I was proud to serve with. I will never Forget you Hrbek R.I.P man!

[NJIvoryGirl]

Rest in peace Christopher. Your family misses you, but you will forever be in their hearts, as well as, ours. Thank you for being you. Lisa

[thefontman]

Rest in peace, Chris. Special thanks to Laura Gormley as well as Mr. Scott Garrett!

Semper Fidelis,

Mark A. Schallow, MSgt, USMC (Ret.)

[fossilfindermate]

Never Forgotten! Christopher Hrbek! May you rest in peace! Thankyou for serving our country and the freedom we enjoy. The loss to your family is untold. but we will all pray for them. Our grandson served along side Sgt Hrbek in previous deployments and has lost a very good friend. God bless all who serve and have served!

[HildaJeanAM]

thank you to be able to view these comments! I have sons in the Marines also, and I am thankful for all these men service to our country.