[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 71 (Tuesday, May 2, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E923]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    20TH ANNIVERSARY OF VIETNAM WAR

                                 ______


                        HON. WILLIAM J. MARTINI

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 2, 1995
  Mr. MARTINI. Mr. Speaker, April 30, 1995, marked the 20th anniversary 
of the end of United States involvement in Vietnam and one of the 
darkest chapters in American history. The Vietnam war created deep 
divisions in the American public. Even today, the war remains a 
controversial issue.
  Controversies aside, 58,200 brave Americans gave their lives in the 
fight for democracy. Vietnam veterans should be proud of their service 
to our country.
  For many years Vietnam veterans did not receive the gratitude that 
they rightfully deserve. Regardless of the war's politics, these 
soldiers stood firm and fought for freedom, something the people of 
Vietnam have never experienced.
  As a Member of Congress, I am privileged to serve with two heroes of 
the Vietnam war. Congressman Randy ``Duke'' Cunningham, who is the only 
naval ace of the war and Congressman Sam Johnson, who was held in 
captivity for 6 years and 10 months. Our Nation owes both these 
individuals a tremendous debt of gratitude.
  Vietnam veterans should walk with their heads high and know that 
their Nation is proud of them. In recent weeks former Secretary of 
Defense Robert McNamara has questioned the United States involvement in 
Vietnam. Mr. McNamara's comments should not diminish the fortitude and 
valor displayed by the men and women who served in Vietnam.
  The lessons of the Vietnam war did not fall on deaf ears. In 
Operation Desert Storm we allowed generals, not politicians in 
Washington to run the war. The result was one of the most successful 
military operations in history.
  As America moves forward into the 21st century, we must never forget 
the tragedy of the Vietnam war. We must never forget the service of 
58,200 soldiers that did not return. And we must never forget the brave 
men and women who answered their country's call.
  Vietnam veterans understand words like duty, honor, and country. As 
members of the finest fighting force in the world, these individuals 
have proved themselves in the service of our Nation. At the 20th 
anniversary of the war's end, I commend our Vietnam veterans. In 
closing, God bless you and welcome home.


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