[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 73 (Friday, May 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E962]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 OSCODA WWII VETERANS' RECOGNITION DAY

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                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2004

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, as our nation prepares for the dedication of 
the National World War II Memorial next weekend, I rise to join my 
constituents in paying solemn tribute to the nearly 200 World War II 
veterans of Oscoda County, Michigan. Each and every one of these 
veterans deserves our continued gratitude for their service, for their 
sacrifice, and for their leadership.
  On May 29th, the residents of Oscoda County will celebrate these 
members of the greatest generation with a parade, ceremony, and 
luncheon marking Oscoda World War II Veterans Recognition Day. This day 
has an added significance: together they will also be watching the 
dedication ceremony in Washington, DC for the National World War II 
Memorial. I am fortunate that I will have the honor of participating in 
this event, and will have the chance to thank these veterans in person 
for the sacrifice they made for our freedom 60 years ago.
  I am especially pleased that this event is focused on those veterans 
that are still with us. On Memorial Day, our nation rightly honors 
those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of preserving 
liberty. But we too often forget to thank those who came home to 
careers and family and civic leadership. By the grace of God they 
returned home, but this does not diminish their service and sacrifice. 
Indeed, their leadership and example since have put us further in their 
debt.
  Mr. Speaker, as we all know, the World War II generation, and 
especially those who fought so bravely in Europe and the Pacific for 
the freedom we enjoy today, are deserving of our highest honor and 
deepest gratitude. We must never forget their sacrifice and their 
courage. I therefore ask that the House join me in paying tribute to 
that greatest generation, and especially to those who will be at the 
Oscoda World War II Veterans Recognition events.




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