[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 29 (Wednesday, March 6, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            SALUTE TO THE FEDERATION OF DODECANESE SOCIETIES

                                 ______


                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 6, 1996

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of 
my colleagues a philanthropic organization that traces its roots back 
to the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. The Dodecanese Islands include 
Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, Kasos, Symi, Kalymnos, Haiki, Tilos, Astypalea, 
Kastelorizo, Nisyros, Karpathos, and Leros. These historic islands 
housed the Colossus of Rhodes and are where Hippocrates, the father of 
medicine, founded the first western medical school. These islands are 
prominently mentioned in Greek history and legend.
  When migrating to the United States, the Dodecanese Greeks brought 
with them their love of Hellenic culture and Democracy. They were the 
first to form an antifascist movement, in New York City, after 
Mussolini's ascension to power in Italy. The movement's members played 
a major role in the liberation of the islands from Italy and Turkey. 
The Dodecanesians who love democracy and freedom, not only fought in 
Greece, they served in the armies of Abysinnia, Spain, and the American 
military on all fronts in the Second World War.
  On March 7, 1996, the members of the Dodecanese Societies in my 
district together with all the members and friends of the society will 
celebrate the 48th anniversary of the unification of the islands with 
Greece. The members of the Dodecanese Societies are unique individuals 
who love their Greek heritage and the United States. They take the best 
of both worlds, to create a true cultural blend, that is better than 
the individual.
  Today, the society continues its positive role. The Federation serves 
as a link to the Hellenic past and a springboard to the future. Under 
the presidency of Professor Christopher I. Koronieos, the organization 
is concentrating on its young since those individuals will play an 
important role in the growth and success of the United States. But, 
they do not forget their heritage and will always fight for freedom and 
human rights, be it in New York or Imia.
  So I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Federation of 
Dodecanese Societies for their past accomplishments and future 
endeavors.

                          ____________________