[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 81 (Friday, June 19, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1174-E1175]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


             SALUTING OLD GLORY: OUR FLAG AND ITS DEFENDERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES E. ROGAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 19, 1998

  Mr. ROGAN. Mr. Speaker, this past Sunday, my family and I joined 
millions across the country to celebrate Flag Day. With its passage, I 
would like to share with my colleagues the story of one of my 
constituents.
  Vito Cannella was born in Italy and later naturalized as an American 
citizen. He is a lifelong public servant, dedicated to serving our 
community and our nation. As a public official in Los Angeles County, 
he is committed to working to share the benefits of his adopted 
homeland with his neighbors. His patriotism is a lesson for us all.
  Upset by anti-government protests and civil unrest during the 1960's, 
Vito joined with Bill Bailey, an old friend, and set about preserving 
and defending our most precious national emblem: The American flag. In 
1966, the two Montrose, California residents worked with local civic 
groups to convince our former colleague H. Allen Smith to introduce and 
successfully pass House Joint Resolution 763. With its passage, the 
week surrounding Flag Day was thereafter dedicated national Flag Week. 
Sadly, this holiday has been quietly omitted from news stories ever 
since. It is my hope that this will change.
  Mr. Speaker, the Stars and Stripes are a noble symbol of our 
republic. As we stand in this chamber, we rise before this bold symbol 
of our freedom. As we engage in debate with our colleagues on the other 
side of the aisle, we should take pride in our right of dissension. And 
as we work to shape policy affecting our children, we should be ever 
mindful of those who sacrificed so much for this right. We honor all 
these by recognizing Flag Week.

[[Page E1175]]

  I challenge my colleagues to do their part to spread the word and 
celebrate this important holiday. Too often, the news of Flag Week is 
pushed aside for flashier stories, or relegated to the back pages on a 
slow news days. It is our duty to carry on the proud tradition of this 
week.
  Mr. Speaker, progress in our country often originates from the 
efforts of just one man. The establishment of Flag Week serves as an 
important reminder of the same. In recognition of Vito Cannella's 
patriotism, and to honor the sacrifice of Americans through the ages 
dedicated to preserving our liberty, I ask my colleagues to join me in 
celebrating Flag Week, 1998.

                          ____________________