[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 55 (Wednesday, April 21, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E724]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE SACRIFICE, SERVICE, AND HEROISM EXHIBITED BY THE WORLD WAR 
              II UNITED STATES NAVAL ARMED GUARD VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 21, 1999

  Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay special tribute to 
the World War II United States Naval Armed Guard Veterans. Created in 
World War I and expanded in World War II, the Naval Armed Guard 
performed the vital service of protecting our merchant vessels and 
their precious cargo from enemy attack. Without these service-members' 
heroic and inspirational service, the United States' overseas supply 
lines would have been compromised and our Nation's efforts abroad would 
have been impeded. Indeed, the United States' owes its ultimate victory 
in the preservation of freedom and democracy to the struggles and 
sacrifices of the 144,900 members of the Navy serving in the Armed 
Guard during World War II.
  Although lacking the best available weapons and technology, these 
servicemembers insured the safe passage of thousands of troops overseas 
by manning the guns on both Army and War Shipping transports. By sheer 
determination, these members transcended the harrowing dangers involved 
in riding slow cargo ships across what German U-boat captains called 
the ``shooting gallery'' and fought off countless enemy planes, 
submarines, and other enemy vessels. In these efforts nearly 2,000 
servicemembers lost their lives and thousands more were wounded or 
taken prisoner.
  Many nations like Great Britain, France, Russia, and the Philippines 
have awarded high honors to the members of the Naval Armed Guard for 
their valor and accomplishments in aiding these nations during World 
War II. It is now long past due that the United States follow suit and 
commend these service-members for their invaluable service in the 
preservation of freedom and democracy and in the protection of our 
troops abroad.
  I therefore ask that my colleagues pause with me to honor the World 
War II Naval Armed Guard Veterans. I am greatly honored to join many 
others throughout the world in saying thank you to the Naval Armed 
Guard veterans for their vigilance in defending our great country. We 
salute you for your service to our nation, and your willingness to 
sacrifice your lives and safety so that others might enjoy your legacy 
of freedom. Your efforts will not be forgotten.

                          ____________________