[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 78 (Friday, June 16, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION HONORING OUR NATION'S SENIOR CITIZENS

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                        HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 15, 2006

  Mr. GONZALEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I introduced a House resolution 
recognizing and honoring America's senior citizens. Such a resolution 
is important because our seniors have made countless sacrifices and 
contributions that have helped make this country great. This resolution 
is an opportunity for Congress to officially recognize the impact of 
this influential segment of our society.
  I would like to take this opportunity to thank my colleague, 
Representative Walter Jones, for his fervent support of this 
resolution. His efforts reflect his value for senior citizens and the 
role they play in our society and our national conscience.
  Undoubtedly, senior citizens have played an important role in the 
development of this nation. They have fought in significant military 
conflicts such as World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. I have 
full confidence that Americans throughout the ages will remember and 
honor such monumental sacrifices.
  During their lifetimes, senior citizens have also experienced a 
myriad of profound social and cultural changes that have made this 
country what it is today. I believe that nothing is more important to 
our ability to effectively address our present than understanding the 
lessons learned from those who have come before us. This resolution 
encourages children and students to take the time to learn from senior 
citizens. The knowledge and experience that older Americans have 
acquired over their lifetimes serve as a window to our collective past. 
It is imperative that we as a society facilitate the sharing of this 
information between generations.
  As we recognize the contributions of seniors, it is important that we 
understand their needs. So much of what we do in Congress directly 
impacts the lives of elderly men and women. The decisions that we make 
on Capitol Hill have tangible effects on the health, pocketbooks, and 
livelihood of each and every senior citizen. It is essential that we 
remember the individuals that our actions will impact as we consider 
issues such as Medicare, Social Security, veterans' benefits, housing, 
and healthcare.
  After a lifetime of working, raising families, and contributing to 
the success of this nation in countless other ways, senior citizens 
deserve to retire with dignity. This resolution is a step in honoring 
the service of our seniors. However, I encourage all Americans to 
express their appreciation for and respect toward senior citizens in 
their lives.
  Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge the House to pass this resolution in the 
coming weeks. My esteemed colleagues in Congress should give deserved 
recognition to America's senior citizens for the contributions they 
have made, and continue to make, to this great nation.

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