[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 32 (Monday, March 11, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S1781]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MATTHEW EISENFELD

 Mr. DODD. Mr. President, it is with great sadness that I rise 
today following the death of Matthew Eisenfeld of West Hartford in the 
terrorist bombing in Israel. The four most recent terrorist attacks 
have not only threatened the fragile peace in this region, but also 
resulted in the death of one of our own. Matthew was a bright and 
caring individual who spoke out for peace in the Middle East--and his 
voice ultimately will not be silenced unless we give into those who use 
vicious acts of violence to derail efforts for peace in this region.
  Throughout his short life, Matthew had a strong impact on the lives 
of the people he met. Clearly, he was a fine student with a good heart. 
He dedicated himself to others and worked hard to learn and follow the 
teachings of the Jewish faith.
  It seems ironic that at the time of his death, Matthew was working on 
a haggadah, the traditional book of freedom and liberation read at 
Passover. He truly believed that the land of Israel that he loved so 
much would one day be at peace.
  Following the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzak Rabin, Matthew 
was asked to speak at a memorial service for the slain leader. His 
message was full of hope that the Middle East peace process would 
continue. Even in the dark days immediately following the death of the 
Prime Minister, Matthew stood up and called on those gathered not to 
give up hope and stressed the necessity of continuing the work of Mr. 
Rabin.
  We have now lost another decent and caring man whose life was a 
testament to peace. This is a tragedy not only for Matthew's family and 
friends, but also for the countless number of people who could have met 
Matthew and learned from him if this senseless act of hate had not 
occurred. We must remember Matthew's love of humanity and continue to 
work to spread his message of peace and hope. Soundly condemning these 
senseless acts of violence while rededicating ourselves to the peace 
process, is the finest way to honor Matthew Eisenfeld's life and the 
other innocent men and women who have lost their lives in these 
terrible bombings.

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