[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 110 (Friday, July 30, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                SALUTE TO THE MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

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                          HON. STEVE E. BUYER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 30, 1999

  Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on the recent 
Memorial Day recess.
  Over that weekend, I had the distinct pleasure and honor to assemble 
with a very special group of veterans, nearly 100 recipients of the 
Medal of Honor. It was truly an inspiring gathering, and at the same 
time, proved a very humbling experience. These individuals epitomize 
the true meaning of selfless sacrifice and personal commitment.
  While many have answered the call to duty, they have answered a 
higher calling. A calling that is spiritual in nature and bigger than 
one's self. For love of God, country, family and friends, these brave 
individuals knowingly placed themselves in harm's way, ready to 
sacrifice life and limb so that their comrades may live.
  Their significant contributions have helped secure a more democratic 
and peaceful world over the last century. More importantly, their 
actions serve as a testament to all Americans about serving and caring 
for others. A recent letter to me from Major General Robert Moorehead, 
United States Army Retired, portrays a fitting description describing 
that powerful event.
  General Moorehead stated:

       Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis was one of the most 
     significant weekends in the history of our great capital 
     city. As the last days of the 20th century continue to 
     unfold, Memorial Day weekend in the capitol of Indiana was 
     one to remember. Nearly 100 Medal of Honor recipients were 
     guests for a series of stirring tributes. These included a 
     solemn Memorial Service; the dedication of the only memorial 
     to recipients to the Medal of Honor; grand marshals in the 
     IPALCO 500 Festival Parade; an outdoor concert by the 
     Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra; and a parade lap around the 
     famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval prior to the start of 
     the race.
       As the 20th century draws to a close, many wonder if the 
     nation has lost sight of the sacrifices which have been made 
     to preserve freedom. After this Memorial Day weekend in 
     Indianapolis, my heart remains swollen with pride in our land 
     and my fellow citizens. The reception given these ordinary 
     men who did extraordinary things can never be equaled.
       I am especially proud of the untold hundreds of volunteers 
     who gave of their time and talent to make these events 
     possible. Memorial Day Weekend 1999 did much to convince me 
     that our nation's freedom loving spirit is alive and well.

     

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