[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 58 (Thursday, May 5, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E899-E900]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         CINCO DE MAYO HOLIDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. LINDA T. SANCHEZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 5, 2005

  Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, today, Mexican-
Americans across

[[Page E900]]

the country celebrate Cinco de Mayo--a day that commemorates the past 
and relishes the present by embracing American culture. So many 
Mexican-Americans have made positive contributions to our Nation.
  One area in particular where Mexican-Americans have made great 
strides is in the Armed Forces. There are many Mexican-Americans 
proudly serving and giving back to their country right now. I want to 
share the story of Daniel from South Gate.
  He is the son of Mexican immigrants, who came to this country to make 
a better life for his family. Growing up, Daniel said he always felt 
patriotic. When I asked him what he thought patriotism was, he replied, 
``I think it's working for freedom. I have always felt that I needed to 
earn my rights and that I had to contribute, even for the right to 
vote.''
  He went on to say that serving in the military was his civic duty. So 
as soon as he was able, Daniel enlisted in the Marines and graduated 
boot camp at 17. Daniel was one of the first Mexican-Americans that 
many Iraqis had ever seen. I can think of no better ambassador for our 
country. While he was shot at, he returned to southern California 
unharmed.
  As you can see by this story, Mexican-Americans share the same goals 
as other Americans of freedom, opportunity, and a chance to build a 
better life. On this day, let us salute Daniel, and all other Mexican-
American soldiers and veterans for their great service to this great 
Nation.

                          ____________________