[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 137 (Monday, October 5, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S11504]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             300TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CITY OF PENSACOLA, FL

 Mr. MACK. Mr. President, I rise today in honor of the 300th 
anniversary of the City of Pensacola, Florida. Although November 21, 
1998 will mark the 300th anniversary of the continuous settlement of 
Pensacola, the origins of Pensacola are much older.
  In 1559, Don Tristan de Luna y Arellano led the first authorized 
attempt to colonize what eventually became known as Pensacola. The 
first attempt at colonization failed, however, and the Spanish were 
forced to withdraw in 1561. The Spanish did not attempt to colonize the 
area again until 1698.
  Since 1698, Pensacola has flown the Spanish flag, the French flag, 
the British flag, the Confederate flag, and the American flag over the 
City. Each flag left its mark upon the City and their historical 
presence is still evident today. Pensacola honors its heritage each 
year with the Fiesta of Five Flags celebration.
  The presence of the United States Navy has also had an impact upon 
Pensacola. In the 1820s, a Navy Yard was established in Pensacola. The 
Navy Yard was closed in 1911, but in a few short years Pensacola was 
selected as the site of a ``Naval flying school.'' Today, pilots still 
seek flight training at the Pensacola Naval Air Station which has been 
called the ``Cradle of Naval Aviation.''
  Pensacola's deep and sheltered bay, sugar white beaches, friendly 
residents, and Southern hospitality continues to charm visitors today. 
Over the past three hundred years, the community has hosted such 
visitors as General Andrew Jackson and entertainer Bob Hope.
  On November 21, 1998, Pensacola will celebrate its 300th anniversary 
at the site of the former Spanish settlement which today is part of the 
Pensacola Naval Air Station. This historic event will be commemorated 
with a celebration which will include a parade and fireworks.
  As a United States Senator from the State of Florida, it gives me 
great pleasure to wish the City of Pensacola a happy 300th anniversary. 
I wish the City of Pensacola all the best for a fun-filled 
celebration.

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