[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 156 (Friday, October 31, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   EXPRESSING GRATITUDE TO MEMBERS OF U.S. ARMED FORCES DEPLOYED IN 
               OPERATION RESTORE HOPE IN SOMALIA IN 1993

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                               speech of

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 28, 2003

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I am proud to rise in strong support of 
H. Con. Res. 291, expressing gratitude to the members of the United 
States Armed Forces who demonstrated valor and dedication to the cause 
of freedom and humanitarian relief during Operation Restore Hope.
  This year marks the tenth anniversary of the battle of Mogadishu, and 
I am very pleased to join with my colleagues in recognizing the 
courageous actions of the Army's Special Forces, the soldiers of the 
10th Mountain Division, and members of the Armed Forces who were 
deployed to capture the terrorist warlord Mohammed Farah Aidid. Today 
we remember and honor the sixteen special operations personnel assigned 
to Task Force Ranger who were killed, and the sacrifices of another 
eighty-three troops who were wounded during one of the most intense 
firefighters in modern history.
  We cannot forget the sacrifices of these soldiers, sailors, airmen 
and Marines. Their service should be recognized as a significant 
contribution to the war against terrorism and oppression. This 
resolution is important not only because it commemorates their enduring 
contributions on behalf of the people of Somalia, but also because of 
its symbolism that continues today in the fight against oppression and 
terror on the streets of Baghdad, Kabul and other hostile areas where 
we try to make people's lives better.
  Madam Speaker, my thoughts and prayers go out to the families and 
friends of those who lost a loved one or were wounded in the battle of 
Mogadishu. I urge my colleagues to join me in expressing our 
appreciation to all those who volunteer to defend our Nation's freedom 
and to remember the sacrifices of all those who served.

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