[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 24 (Thursday, March 7, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E307-E308]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATING THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY AT WEST POINT ON ITS 
                        BICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 6, 2002

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, ``to educate, train, and inspire the corps 
of cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character 
committed to the values of duty, honor, country; professional growth 
throughout a career as an officer in the United States Army; and a 
lifetime of selfless service to the nation.''
  That is the mission of an outstanding institution of rich history and 
formidable pride, our West Point Military Academy, along the shores of 
our historic Hudson River.
  More than 200 years ago, Gen. George Washington, recognizing the 
strategic importance of West Point, established fortifications

[[Page E308]]

in our war against the British. There, along the west bank of the 
Hudson River, during the founding of our Nation, West Point was born.
  Further recognizing our national need to develop an institution 
dedicated to the arts and sciences of warfare, Thomas Jefferson signed 
legislation establishing the U.S. Military Academy in 1802. Over the 
last two centuries, West Point Military Academy has grown to become one 
of the most revered institutions of its kind, training young men and 
women to become great leaders and proud soldiers. Among the 
distinguished list of Academy graduates are names which have changed 
the history of our Nation and our world, including Grant, Lee, Sherman, 
Jackson, Eisenhower, MacArthur, Bradley, Arnold, Clark, and Patton.
  In these trying times for our Nation, as many of the service men and 
women are defending freedom in Afghanistan and elsewhere around the 
world, it is a fitting tribute to celebrate the 200th anniversary of 
the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the citadel of freedom.
  The leadership which West Point has provided to our Nation and which 
will continue to provide for years to come is an inspiration to every 
American.
  West Point is more than just an Academy, it is a pillar of our 
Nation, and a symbol of our Nation's rich past and fruitful future.
  This prestigious Academy is a tribute to the strength of America and 
our right as free people to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.
  The history of West Point is the story of America--a distinguished 
tale to tell.
  God bless West Point and God bless America.

                          ____________________