[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 32 (Thursday, February 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E336]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNITION OF LATINO AND IMMIGRANT WORKERS OF THE PHOENIX PROJECT

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                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 27, 2003

  Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the many Latino and 
immigrant workers of the Phoenix Project. This project encompassed the 
restoration of the west front of the Pentagon. We are all familiar with 
the horrific event that caused the Pentagon to require reconstruction. 
Perhaps less known, though, are the workers who restored the Pentagon 
in record time and under budget. When terrorists attacked the United 
States on September 11, 2001, they hoped to paralyze our country with 
fear, to break our spirit. The Phoenix Project, however, reflects the 
exact opposite. Three thousand workers, the majority of whom were from 
Latin America, descended upon the Pentagon with voracious energy and an 
unending willingness to help rebuild their newly adopted country.
  The work they performed was back-breaking: pouring cement, installing 
plumbing lines, and hanging limestone slabs. Many traveled great 
distances to the Washington, DC area to work, living and sleeping in 
crowded hotel rooms. Despite these hardships, these workers labored 
tirelessly around the clock and throughout the weeks. It was evident to 
all that the Phoenix Project workers were incredibly proud to be 
involved in the restoration and renovation of the Pentagon. Their 
enthusiasm was infectious and quickly drove the project to completion. 
According to Walker Lee Evey, Program Manager of the Phoenix Project, 
``Workers came to the managers and said, `If you'll tell us to get this 
building rebuilt in a year, we'll do it. We can do that!' '' And do 
that they did, with determination and pride that is seldom seen.
  I myself feel honored to stand here today and commend their actions. 
I am also proud to introduce a House Resolution today applauding their 
efforts, which, is being cosponsored by all 20 members of the 
Congressional Hispanic Caucus. At a time when many Americans are 
suspicious of immigrants, the Phoenix Project workers put aside hard 
feelings to fully restore this uniquely American symbol. They serve as 
a symbol of humanity and hope. Their motivation, devotion, and 
discipline should be honored by all Americans.

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