[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 66 (Wednesday, May 24, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       SUPPORTING DAY OF HONOR FOR MINORITY WORLD WAR II VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. J.C. WATTS, JR.

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 23, 2000

  Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House 
Joint Resolution 98 to support Minority Veterans who fought in WW II.
  I ask you to join me in commending a group of well deserving military 
veterans. On April 12, this resolution was introduced with bipartisan 
support, to recognize the extraordinary contribution of minority 
veterans during World War II. Several U.S. Senators including military 
veterans John McCain, John Warner, and Strom Thurmond have co-sponsored 
an identical resolution in the U.S. Senate which passed with unanimous 
consent on May 18, 2000.
  During World War II more than 1.5 million minorities recognized that 
the United States was an imperfect nation but also realized that it was 
their nation. Even though there was racism and segregation present 
throughout the country, like the famous Massachusetts 54th, these 
individuals anted up to serve their country in the Armed Forces in the 
belief that our nation could and would change. As a result of their 
unselfish call to duty, many of them sacrificed their lives.
  A ``Day of Honor'' in recognition of their courageous service is long 
overdue. The Day of Honor 2000 Project is sponsored by a committed 
group of individuals, including minority veterans, who truly understand 
the importance of this effort. They are helping organize this 
initiative in communities throughout the nation.
  These veterans through their effectiveness in combat and their 
devotion to duty helped destroy the color barrier within the Armed 
Forces and in American society in general.

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