[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 72 (Thursday, May 26, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1114-E1115]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 57TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 26, 2005

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. 
Res. 149, a bill recognizing the 57th Anniversary of the Independence 
of the State of Israel. Yom Ha'Atzmaut, Israel's Independence Day, 
marks a day when Theodor Herzl's prophetic words became reality: ``if 
you will it, it is no dream.''
  The State of Israel was established as a sovereign and independent 
nation 57 years ago, and it continues to be a strong friend of the 
United States and a beacon of democracy in the Middle East.
  On May 14, 1948, Israel was officially established, and the United 
States was one of the first countries to recognize Israel, doing so 
within 11 minutes of its creation. Israel has come a long way since 
those initial minutes. The Israeli people have contributed greatly as 
scholars, innovators, educators, and more, and I am pleased to have 
this opportunity to recognize their accomplishments.

[[Page E1115]]

  Since the very beginning of its existence, Israel has been a vital 
ally of the United States, enjoying a strategic partnership based on 
shared democratic values, friendship, and respect. America and Israel 
shall remain close friends for years to come, particularly as Israel 
continues to seek peace with her neighbors. On the Jewish Calendar, 
Israel's Independence Day falls on the 5th of Iyar, corresponding this 
year with May 12, 2005. This day is a joyous time to reflect with pride 
on the work of the men and women who knew that one day the dream of the 
State of Israel would become a reality.
  Mr. Speaker, I join with my colleagues in extending warm 
congratulations and best wishes to the people of Israel as they 
celebrate this 57th year of Israel's independence. I wish them peace 
and prosperity in the years to come, kein yehi ratzon.

                          ____________________