[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 50 (Friday, April 22, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E737-E738]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN APPRECIATION OF OUR WORLD WAR II VETERANS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. PAUL RYAN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 21, 2005

  Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, as we approach the sixtieth 
anniversary of VE Day, we must remember and honor the men and women of 
America's armed forces who secured victory in World War II at a great 
cost.

[[Page E738]]

They were regular citizens thrust into an extraordinary conflict at a 
pivotal point in world history, and freedom's future across the globe 
depended on their courage and character. They sacrificed and endured 
much in order to defeat tyranny and preserve liberty--overcoming 
formidable enemies, the elements, and undoubtedly their fears. The 
freedoms we enjoy today are their legacy, and we must cherish and 
defend this legacy as they did.
  I have been very fortunate to meet quite a few of those in 
Southeastern Wisconsin who served during World War II, and every time I 
speak with them it is an inspiration. These heroes in our midst are a 
constant reminder of the tremendous difference that one person can make 
in this world. Because they confronted evil and risked their lives to 
liberate occupied lands, countless individuals around the world were 
able to grow up enjoying the blessings of freedom, and America's land 
and liberty were preserved.
  Later this week, some of these veterans will be commemorating the 
sixtieth anniversary of victory in World War II at a special ceremony 
in Franklin, Wisconsin. They should know that America has not forgotten 
their bravery and how they and those fighting beside them saved the 
free world. We will forever be indebted to them for their service to 
our country in its hour of need, and we will continue to draw strength 
from this example as we fight terrorism and other threats today and in 
the future.

                          ____________________