[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 156 (Saturday, November 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  McLEAN COUNTY WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. THOMAS W. EWING

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 7, 1997

  Mr. EWING. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, November 8, 1997, McLean County 
will hold a dedication ceremony for their new World War II memorial.
  Our Nation is graced with many treasures, though none so precious as 
the freedom we enjoy in our prosperous country. As we approach this 
Veterans Day, we must thank our veterans for providing and safeguarding 
that freedom. Unfortunately, many have died in war protecting and 
defending that freedom. In cities throughout this great land, and now 
right here in Bloomington, there are monuments etched with names of 
those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Each name marks the end of the 
dreams of a young American whose life was cut short in the defense of 
freedom, each inscription a lasting legacy to the selfless sacrifice 
our very best men and women were willing to make.
  I commend all the volunteers who spent countless hours building this 
lasting memorial for the 306 men and women from McLean County who died 
in World War II. I thank all the union workers who donated their time 
and efforts, in particular the carpenters, engineers, cement masons, 
plumbers, teamsters, and electrical workers. Their efforts will be 
appreciated for generations to come.
  I invite all to join me on November 11, Veterans Day, in recognizing 
all of yesterday's service members, and all of today's soldiers, 
sailors, airmen and marines. Our Nation is the finest in the history of 
mankind because of their service.

                          ____________________