Supporting the designation of “Serbian American Heritage Month” and celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Serbian Americans to the United States.

Supporting the designation of “Serbian American Heritage Month” and celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Serbian Americans to the United States.

Whereas, since the nineteenth century, generations of Serbian immigrants have come to the United States seeking freedom, economic opportunity, religious liberty, and security;

Whereas these Serbian immigrants established communities throughout the United States that continue to contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Nation;

Whereas Serbian Americans have settled throughout the United States and have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, freedom, and civic engagement as loyal and patriotic citizens;

Whereas there are an estimated 1,000,000 Americans of Serbian ancestry living throughout the United States;

Whereas Serbian Americans have contributed to every aspect of American society, including the military, government, public service, business, science, medicine, law, education, technology, athletics, and the arts;

Whereas Serbian American scientist Nikola Tesla made groundbreaking contributions to the development of modern electricity and technological innovation that transformed the United States and the world;

Whereas Serbian Americans have honorably served in the Armed Forces of the United States in every major conflict since their arrival in America, demonstrating courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the United States;

Whereas the partnership between the United States and Serbia is rooted in a long history of cooperation and mutual respect, including the alliance between the two nations during World War I and World War II;

Whereas President Woodrow Wilson honored the alliance and friendship between the United States and Serbia during World War I by issuing a proclamation recognizing the courage and sacrifices of the Serbian people and by ordering the Serbian national flag to be flown above the White House on July 28, 1918, a rare and historic tribute to a foreign nation;

Whereas the rescue of more than 500 Allied and United States airmen during Operation Halyard in 1944 stands as the largest rescue missions of United States airmen behind enemy lines in history, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the Serbian and American peoples;

Whereas Serbian American entrepreneurs, business leaders, and professionals have contributed significantly to the economic development and prosperity of the United States through innovation, investment, and job creation;

Whereas Serbian American artists, writers, musicians, athletes, and cultural figures have enriched the cultural fabric of the United States and strengthened appreciation for Serbian heritage;

Whereas Serbian Americans have made significant contributions to medicine, science, engineering, academia, and public service, improving the lives of countless Americans;

Whereas it is important to recognize and celebrate the achievements, heritage, and cultural contributions of Serbian Americans and their role in strengthening the United States; and

Whereas February, which includes Serbia’s Statehood Day celebrated annually on February 15, would be an appropriate month to designate as “Serbian American Heritage Month”: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

(1) supports the designation of “Serbian American Heritage Month” to honor the history, heritage, achievements, and cultural contributions of Serbian Americans;

(2) recognizes the many contributions Serbian Americans have made to the United States in the fields of government, military service, science, technology, medicine, business, education, arts, culture, and athletics; and

(3) urges the people of the United States to observe Serbian American Heritage Month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and educational programs that celebrate the rich history and contributions of Serbian Americans, and the ties between the United States and Serbia.