[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 145 (Thursday, September 27, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S12279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE 108TH BIRTHDAY OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE 
                             UNITED STATES

  Mr. SUNUNU. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary 
organization with a membership consisting of the best and the bravest 
America has to offer. On Saturday, September 29, 2007, we honor the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, more commonly known as 
the VFW, by celebrating the organization's 108th birthday.
  The VFW is defined by a record of service and commitment to our 
country and our veterans. From initially fighting to protect our 
freedom overseas, to later ensuring that veterans have the compensation 
and care they deserve back home, the 2.3 million members in 
approximately 8,400 Posts worldwide deserve our thanks and recognition.
  Since 1899, when a group of 13 Spanish-American War veterans convened 
to advocate for the benefits then denied to their comrades in arms, the 
VFW has worked tirelessly to protect the rights of fellow veterans 
while continuously honoring the service of those who made the ultimate 
sacrifice to protect our way of life.
  One of the many privileges I have in serving New Hampshire is working 
with representatives of the Granite State's VFW Auxiliary Posts. Never 
losing sight of the organization's mission or obligations, the 
straightforward approach of members serves as a breath of fresh air. 
They ask direct questions and expect direct answers. New Hampshire's 
VFW members should be proud of their representation.
  Nationally, the VFW is committed to its mission to ``honor the dead 
by helping the living'' through veterans' service, community service, 
and steadfast advocacy of a strong national defense. This dedication 
can be witnessed through the organization's work to create the Veterans 
Administration, its efforts to establish numerous memorials in memory 
of those who have served, and its devotion to improving the 
educational, health, and other benefits owed to returning veterans. 
Moreover, the VFW's efforts in the community, annually providing more 
than 13 million hours of volunteerism and donating $2.5 million in 
college scholarships, further endears the organization and its members 
to all Americans.
  At a time of ongoing conflict abroad, the VFW welcomes our returning 
servicemembers with support, guidance, and camaraderie as they readjust 
to life on the home front. Additionally, as they continue to serve the 
communities around them, VFW members act as role models whose 
experiences and commitment to service provide a beacon of light in 
today's society. For their longstanding and continued contributions, 
the VFW and its members deserve our immense respect and sincere 
gratitude.

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