[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 14, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS

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                               speech of

                           HON. HEATH SHULER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, November 5, 2007

  Mr. SHULER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 
744, recognizing the contributions of Native American veterans. These 
veterans have served with courage, pride, and honor to protect this 
country and the freedoms we hold dear.
  As we approach Veterans Day, it is imperative that we all remember 
and honor those who have sacrificed their lives and families for the 
safety and security of this Nation.
  I am very pleased that Congress has passed my legislation that honors 
Private First Class Charles George, a Native American veteran that 
served in the Korean War. Pfc. George was a member of the Eastern Band 
of Cherokee Indians and was raised in the Birdtown community of the 
Qualla Boundary. He attended Cherokee Schools before enlisting in the 
U.S. Army and being sent to fight in the Korean War. Pfc. George left 
his home to fight for our Nation, but the young man did not return to 
our mountains.
  On November 30th, 1952, while fighting in Korea, Private First Class 
George was killed in action. He died saving the lives of those around 
him. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for 
his actions during the Korean War.
  The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Asheville, North 
Carolina will be renamed the ``Charles George Department of Veterans 
Affairs Medical Center'' at the end of this month to honor his actions 
and valor.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Native American veterans 
for their valiant service on behalf of our Nation.

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