[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 83 (Thursday, June 20, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CODE TALKERS RECOGNITION ACT

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                               speech of

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 18, 2002

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 
3250, the Code Talkers Recognition Act. This bill expresses Congress' 
recognition towards the Native American Code Talkers for their 
honorable contribution in the U.S. victories during World War I and II.
  The Sioux, Comanche, and Choctaw Code Talkers served on the 
frontlines of World War II in the European fronts and on the Pacific. 
During World War I the Choctaw Code Talkers served as radio airmen who 
were positioned in the widest possible area for communications that 
resulted in the successful transferring of their unbreakable code.
  Many Native American Code Talkers provided vital combat information 
in their native language, regarding the enemies' locations and their 
strength. As a result, countless American soldier's lives were saved in 
battle. As a member of the House Committee of Veteran Affairs, I 
acknowledge the magnitude of commitment these men carried out in order 
to defend our Country and to grasp victory.
  Last year on July 26, 2001, I had the privilege to participate in the 
Congressional Gold Medal award ceremony for the Navajo Code Talkers. 
Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation that will honor additional 
heroes of America, the Sioux, Comanche, and Choctaw Code Talkers. These 
code talkers respectfully deserve equal recognition for their heroic 
support in World Wars I and II.

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