[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 107 (Friday, July 27, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1462]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  60TH ANNIVERSARY OF MILITARY SERVICE OF PHILIPPINE COMMONWEALTH ARMY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 27, 2001

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to bring to my colleagues' attention 
the fact that yesterday was the 60th anniversary of President Franklin 
Roosevelt's Executive Order calling into military service the 
Commonwealth Army of the Philippines.
  In accordance with this the White House released a statement 
yesterday commemorating this important anniversary. It is long overdue 
that we resolve the inequity in our Nation's failure to provide 
veterans benefits to these Philippine veterans.
  I request that the full text of this statement be included in the 
Record.

                                              The White House,

                                        Washington, July 26, 2001.
       I am pleased to send greetings to the 4,000 members of the 
     American Coalition for Filipino Veterans as you celebrate 
     ``Filipino Veterans of World War II Day.''
       On July 26, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued an 
     executive order calling the organized forces of the 
     Commonwealth Army of the Philippines to join the United 
     States armed forces in preparing for the possible outbreak of 
     war with Japan. Tens of thousands of Filipino soldiers 
     bravely answered the President's call.
       When war finally came, more than 120,000 Filipinos fought 
     with unwavering loyalty and great gallantry under the command 
     of General Douglas MacArthur. The combined U.S.-Philippine 
     forces distinguished themselves by their valor and heroism in 
     defense of freedom and democracy. Thousands of Filipino 
     soldiers gave their lives in the battles of Bataan and 
     Corregidor. These soldiers won for the United States the 
     precious time needed to disrupt the enemy's plans for 
     conquest in the Pacific. During the three long years 
     following those battles, the Filipino people valiantly 
     resisted a brutal Japanese occupation with an indomitable 
     spirit and steadfast loyalty to America.
       This month, as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of 
     President Roosevelt's military order, we recognize the 
     important service and contributions of Filipino soldiers in 
     turning back aggression and preserving democracy. America 
     extends to you heartfelt and abiding thanks for the 
     sacrifices made by Filipino soldiers during World War II.
       Laura joins me in sending best wishes for a successful 
     celebration here in Washington, D.C.

     

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