[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 128 (Saturday, August 4, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN RECOGNITION OF OUR PURPLE HEART VETERANS

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                               speech of

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 30, 2007

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 
49, recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Military Order of the 
Purple Heart and commending recipients of the Purple Heart for their 
courageous demonstrations of gallantry and heroism on behalf of the 
United States and in support of S. 27, supporting the goals and ideals 
of ``National Purple Heart Recognition Day.''
  The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in current use. It 
is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who are killed or wounded 
during conflict with an enemy force or while held as prisoners of war.
  The Purple Heart was originally awarded during the Revolutionary War 
by the order of then-General George Washington. In 1932 the practice of 
awarding this prestigious medal was reinstated to honor the 200th 
birthday of George Washington.
  The Military Order of the Purple Heart is the only veteran's 
organization comprised strictly of combat veterans. It was created for 
the protection and mutual interest of those who have received the 
Purple Heart. Since the reintroduction of this high honor, over 1.5 
million soldiers have been awarded the Purple Heart; 550,000 of these 
brave individuals are living today.
  Madam Speaker, the recipients of the Purple Heart have made an 
invaluable contribution to our country that will not be forgotten. They 
put their lives on the line and made great sacrifices while in service 
to our country and deserve our deepest respect. I urge my colleagues to 
support H. Con. Res. 49 and S. 27, and I thank all of our Nation's 
veterans for their service to our country.

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