[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 69 (Friday, May 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E914]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN HONOR OF KALPANA CHAWLA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 9, 2003

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Co-Chairs of the 
India Caucus, my colleagues Joe Crowley and Joe Wilson, for holding a 
memorial today in the House of Representatives for Dr. Kalpana Chawla.
  It is with great sadness that we remember the tragic events of 
February 1, 2003. The loss of seven astronauts on board the shuttle 
Columbia leaves us with profound sadness that cannot be expressed.
  Dr. Kalpana Chawla in particular represented much of the best that 
our world has to offer and I would like to pay special tribute to her. 
Kalpana grew up in India and although she came from a small, rural 
area--her charm, drive and dedication allowed her to surpass all 
boundaries and develop into the fine astronaut that she was.
  In reading interviews that Kalpana gave both before and during her 
mission on Columbia, a portrait emerged of an intelligent, determined 
woman, who managed a successful career, while at the same time being a 
devoted daughter and wife. She helped open the door further for women 
in science and space exploration careers, and I know the people of 
India, as all of us here today, will always hold a special place in our 
heart for Kalpana. Those who were fortunate to know her personally will 
never forget her, and her legacy will live on.

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