[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 27 (Thursday, March 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION ON 
                          ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 3, 2004

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. 
Res. 412, a resolution honoring the men and women of the Drug 
Enforcement Administration on the occasion of its 30th anniversary.
  The illegal drug market in the United States is among the most 
lucrative in the world. The market is fueled by diverse groups of 
people within and outside the borders of our nation. The work done by 
the men and women of the DEA is rarely amply recognized despite the 
integral role they play in curbing the illegal drug market and its 
harmful repercussions to our communities across the country.
  The South Florida district which I represent, has in the past been 
faced with a formidable threat from drug trafficking. It was then, as 
it is now, the men and women of the DEA who tackled that threat. With 
their active and relentless efforts, they have drastically decreased 
it. However, they do this often at a great sacrifice.
  We should never take for granted that there are individuals who risk 
their lives on a daily basis with the work that they do in order to 
create a safer environment for us all. That numerous DEA employees have 
died in service reflects the dangerous conditions in which these 
individuals have chosen to work and their admirable dedication to 
safeguarding our nation from the threat posed by the illegal drug 
market.
  Thus, I urge all of my colleagues to vote favorably for the passage 
of H. Res. 412 and in so doing join me in congratulating the DEA for 
its 30th anniversary, and honoring and thanking all of the employees of 
the DEA for the invaluable work that they do in protecting this nation.

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