[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 28 (Thursday, March 6, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E413-E414]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               ANNIVERSARY OF THE FALL OF THE ALAMO, 1836

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. WALTER B. JONES

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 6, 1997

  Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, today, March 6, 1997, marks the 161st 
anniversary of the fall of the Alamo in 1836.
  One of the most treasured memorials of our national heritage is the 
Alamo; millions of

[[Page E414]]

American and Mexican citizens travel each year to see where this epic 
battle between America and Mexico was fought. History records that 
approximately 184 Americans and over 600 Mexicans gave their lives in 
the battle. Each country fought valiantly, driven by a sincere love for 
their nations.
  At the Alamo, two known battle flags were flown. History teaches us 
that one flag was destroyed, and the other, the battle flag of the New 
Orleans' Greys militia unit, was captured by the Mexican leader Santa 
Anna. The battle flag was then sent to Mexico City as proof that the 
Alamo had been receiving help from rebel forces in America, and as 
proof to Mexico that Santa Anna had captured the Alamo.
  This flag is known to exist and has been seen within the last decade 
by legitimate sources. It is reported to be in the same basic condition 
as when it was originally sent to Mexico so many years ago.
  This valued and treasured artifact of Mexican and American history 
needs to be returned to its rightful place, the Alamo, so it can be 
displayed as a memorial tribute to the men who fought and died for 
their Nations' beliefs.
  At present, the Texas State Legislature has been authorized to pursue 
the loan or trade of three Mexican flags captured at the subsequent 
battle of San Jacinto in return for the Alamo flag, and also has 
funding set aside to assist in the restoration and preservation of the 
flag upon its return.
  At no previous time in history have our two nations enjoyed a better 
economic relationship with respect to trade and diplomatic relations. I 
ask that my colleagues and fellow Americans take this opportunity to 
reach out to our friends in Mexico, to request that the battle flag be 
returned to its rightful place at the Alamo.

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