[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 59 (Friday, April 11, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E745]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                REMEMBERING OUR FORMER PRISONERS OF WAR

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                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 10, 2003

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be here tonight to 
commemorate ``National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day.''
  Sacrifice. It's a word we all know. All of us have made some 
sacrifices in our lives. We make sacrifices for our family, for our 
close friends, even for our neighbors and coworkers.
  Anyone who has ever served or is serving in our Armed Forces knows 
that military life requires many sacrifices. Over one million Americans 
have given their lives, the ultimate sacrifice, while serving in our 
nation's Armed Forces.
  Throughout history, the brave men and women of our Armed Forces have 
risked their lives. They have done so not merely for family or 
coworkers, but for a cause represented by the American flag--the 
freedom to choose and the liberty to succeed.
  But no one knows the meaning of sacrifice better than America's 
former prisoners of war. All those who have been POWs know the true 
meaning of freedom. They have paid a tremendous price for the liberty 
we all cherish. Their service and sacrifice, and that of their fellow 
veterans, make our way of life possible.
  Throughout the history of the United States, more than 500,000 
Americans have been taken prisoner. Each of these courageous men and 
women has experienced horrors unimaginable in the annals of civilized 
existence. Most have endured long-term deprivation of freedom and the 
loss of human dignity. Today, many continue to experience prolonged 
battles with various illnesses and other disabilities.
  There are no words to adequately describe the sacrifices made by our 
former POWs. Humble words can never repay the debt we owe these brave 
men and women. However, special days like today provide us with the 
opportunity to reflect upon the terror that these great Americans 
endured in service to their country.
  While we can never fully comprehend the suffering they experienced, 
we must respect their unwavering dedication to life. Without question, 
American POWs have demonstrated an unfailing devotion to duty, honor 
and country.
  Their service helped preserve our freedom through two world wars and 
regional conflicts of the cold war era. Our former prisoners of war 
have given more than most Americans will be called upon to give for 
their country.
  As we honor our former POWs tonight, we are reminded of our current 
prisoners of war being held in Iraq. We pray for their safe return and 
are working to secure their freedom.
  ``Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day'' serves as a poignant 
reminder of the sacrifice and commitment of all the American men and 
women whose patriotism has been tested by the chains of enemy 
captivity.
  Their experiences underscore our debt to those who place their lives 
in harm's way and stand willing to trade their liberty for ours. As a 
nation, we must always remember the sacrifices made by our men and 
women in uniform.

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