There are many occasions when we honor members of this Senate for the work they do on behalf of their constituents and the communities they represent.  It is not so often that we have the opportunity to commend a member for outstanding service to the nation.

Certainly, Pennsylvania history is filled with stories of individuals who have gone from military service to a distinguished political career. Civil War commander and Pennsylvania Governor John Frederick Hartranft, whose statue is on the plaza outside this Capitol, is one prominent example.  Far fewer have interrupted political careers for active duty.

Today, we are pleased to welcome back for session Senator John Pippy, who for nearly a year has been better known as Captain John Pippy, with eight months of strenuous service in Kuwait and Iraq.

Each member of this body contributes unique perspectives and individual experience, but John Pippy now brings a most exceptional outlook to Senate service.

John and the 63 soldiers in the 332nd Engineering Company have given us a lesson in dedication and duty, doing their part in the post-war rebuilding effort, which has proved more challenging and more dangerous than anticipated.

We are grateful for the men and women, those from Pennsylvania and those from other states, who suspended their careers, who separated from family and friends, and who put their lives at risk to help America carry out this necessary and consequential mission.  They have sacrificed much, they have served with distinction, and they deserve our thanks and our respect.

I want to acknowledge too the people in the 37th Senatorial District, who elected John with the understanding that they would not have his services for some time.  In his absence, we heard from community leaders and constituents in his district, as they shared their questions and concerns, their views and priorities, with us.  But we also heard consistent appreciation for the job John was doing as a leader of one unit of an incredible team defending freedom and advancing democracy.

Today, we offer a warm welcome back to John, we express our deep gratitude for his service and leadership and safe return, and we look forward to his participation in this important legislative year, with our full Senate complement restored.