[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 144 (Friday, September 15, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S13672]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY

  Mr. DOLE. Mr. President, just down the hall from my office, the POW/
MIA flag stands in the Capitol rotunda. That flag flies as a sad, but 
proud, reminder of the sacrifices which brave people made in the 
defense of our country--in Vietnam, in Korea, and in World War II. As I 
am sure my colleagues know, today is National POW/MIA Recognition Day--
a day for all Americans to reflect on those who faithfully served this 
Nation but whose ultimate fate remains unknown. America must never 
forget those who have gone missing in the battles to defend our 
freedom.
  I opposed President Clinton's decision to establish diplomatic ties 
with Vietnam. Shortly before the took office, then president-elect 
Clinton said that ``there will be no normalization of relations with 
any nation that is at all suspected of withholding any information.'' 
And while Vietnam may have selectively cooperated here and there, all 
signs continue to point to the fact that Vietnam is still willfully 
withholding information.
  We are still watching the Vietnamese Government. We are still 
expecting total cooperation. And we will not close the book until we 
are certain that we have the fullest possible accounting of every 
American POW and MIA.
  Today, let us look up to the POW/MIA flag in the rotunda, and really 
reflect. Many here have answered this country's call to arms, but 
today, let us remember those who endured a heavier burden as prisoners 
of war. Let us recall the pain felt by the families and friends of 
those who didn't come back, and those who remain missing in action.
  By honoring our POW'S and MIA's, we honor the freedom and peace they 
defended. We can take inspiration from their example and courage from 
their actions. Our country is great because of these American heroes, 
and we cannot rest until the fullest possible accounting is achieved.

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