[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 66 (Wednesday, May 24, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E825]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING THE PRICE OF FREEDOM

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 23, 2000

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on this Memorial Day, as on similar days 
in years past, we remember the contributions of the millions of men and 
women who served in our Armed Forces. It is also a day to instill in 
younger Americans the tradition of honoring those who died in service 
to their country.
  This year we commemorate two important events--the 50th anniversary 
of the Korean war and the 25th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam 
war. These anniversaries remind us of how important it is to remember 
our history and to honor those who died to protect our future.
  Memorial Day is a time for new generations to learn about the price 
America has paid to preserve freedom and lead other nations to 
democracy. Those of us who lived through the cold war have a 
responsibility to educate our children and grandchildren about the 
dangers still present in the world--and the need to maintain defenses 
strong enough to deter potential adversaries.
  The words ``freedom'' and ``democracy'' are most often used to 
explain why members of our Armed Forces gave their lives to defend our 
country. And in far-off places such as Bosnia and South Korea, American 
men and women are still fighting for these principles.
  There are no words to adequately describe the supreme sacrifice made 
by brave Americans who died in service to this Nation. But we can 
demonstrate our deep respect for them--and their families--by 
remembering their struggle.
  Each of us has an obligation to honor the sacrifices of those who 
have worn the uniform of our Armed Forces. On Memorial Day, take time 
to remember that our freedom was paid for in blood on battlefields 
around the world.

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