[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 106 (Thursday, July 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1495]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           TRIBUTE TO THE SEVENTH MICHIGAN VOLUNTEER INFANTRY

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                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 16, 2003

  Mr. ROGERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
the Seventh Michigan Volunteer Infantry for their courageous efforts in 
the Civil War that aided in the preservation of the Union, especially 
at Fredericksburg, Virginia.
  In December of 1862, during the battle of Fredericksburg, the Union 
faced fierce opposition on the Rappahannock River and was forced to 
send men across the river to secure the Union's position. Members of 
the Seventh Michigan Volunteer Infantry from Ingham County were among 
the daring men who risked their lives that cold December day. Under 
heavy fire, the Seventh Infantry paddled across the river and 
successfully flushed Confederate riflemen from their shelter. Their 
bravery is forever remembered in Michigan's state anthem, ``My 
Michigan, My Michigan.''
  More than 140 years later, on December 11, 2003, the Seventh Michigan 
Volunteer Infantry is being honored with a monument that is to be 
placed in Fredericksburg, Virginia. This monument is to remember the 
bold and daring efforts put forth by the Seventh Infantry throughout 
the Civil War. Their efforts held this nation together amidst a time of 
national divide and struggle.
  The Seventh Michigan Volunteer Infantry has earned this place in our 
nation's history. In such a pivotal moment, the Seventh Infantry 
demonstrated bravery, determination and patriotism. They made their 
home state and their nation proud.
  Mr. Speaker, I wish to extend the gratitude of myself and the entire 
nation to the Seventh Michigan Volunteer Infantry for their courage in 
the battle of Fredericksburg. I ask my colleagues to join me in 
recognizing their place in history and their part in restoring the 
Union.

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