[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 25, 1994)]
[House]
[Page H]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                 NATIONAL PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE DAY

  (Mr. SANGMEISTER asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. SANGMEISTER. Mr. Speaker, as many of us are returning to our 
districts to observe Memorial Day, I ask you to remember the 2,400 
Americans who were killed and the 1,000 who were wounded in the 
Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941. This event marks the 
entry of the United States into the Second World War where 16.5 million 
Americans would serve and over 400,000 would lose their lives.
  To honor those Americans who were killed and wounded, I have 
introduced legislation to permanently recognize the significance of 
this event. House Joint Resolution 131 would designate December 7 of 
each year as ``National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.'' I believe such 
designation is warranted and long overdue. However, a committee rule 
prohibits proposals for recurring annual commemorations. Despite having 
233 cosponsors, I am told this resolution will not be released for 
consideration by the full House. I feel strongly that if we do not 
honor this day, it will be forgotten by generations to come. For this 
reason, I have filed a discharge petition. I encourage you to sign this 
petition so this measure can be considered by the House. This 
resolution is supported by the major veterans organizations 
representing World War II vets.
  As we are participating in Memorial Day activities, I would ask that 
you pause and remember this significant event. Pearl Harbor changed the 
course of history and deserves permanent recognition as a day of 
remembrance. But, do not take my word for it. I suggest you ask the 8.8 
million World War II veterans. Or, better yet, ask the family members 
of the 406,000 who died in service.
  Sign the discharge petition and honor those killed and wounded during 
the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

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