[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 35 (Thursday, March 24, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: March 24, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                     GENERAL BERNARDO DE GALVEZ DAY

                                 ______


                         HON. TILLIE K. FOWLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 24, 1994

  Mrs. FOWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a resolution to 
commemorate the contribution that Gen. Bernardo de Galvez, Spain's 
Governor of the Louisiana Territory during the Revolutionary War, made 
to America's fight for independence.
  Few Americans today appreciate the important contributions that 
Spain, and General de Galvez in particular, made to our Nation's fight 
for freedom. The General, who was the youngest Governor of the Spanish 
colonies, personally led troops against the British in a successful 
campaign to drive them from the Louisiana Territory and the Gulf of 
Mexico. He played a vital role in defending Florida, Louisiana, 
Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, capturing such cities as Pensacola, 
Baton Rouge, Natchez, Mobile, San Antonio, and Galveston from the 
British to support America's aspirations for freedom.
  General de Galvez's actions denied these posts to Great Britain and 
pressured British forces in the south. Coupled with his support for 
America's Continental Army and militiamen through the provision of 
munitions, cattle, uniforms, and other aid, General de Galvez helped to 
assure George Washington's final victory over the British at Yorktown.
  Mr. Speaker, General de Galvez's efforts had a major impact on the 
outcome of the war and were a key to this Nation's success against the 
British. The resolution I am introducing today would commemorate these 
critical contributions by designating the anniversary of his birth, 
July 23, as General Bernardo de Galvez Day. This resolution would 
authorize the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people 
of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and 
activities, and would give much-deserved recognition to the efforts of 
a man who did much to secure life, liberty, and the pursuit of 
happiness for all Americans.

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