[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 13, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E173]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE COURAGE OF THE HAITIAN SOLDIERS THAT FOUGHT FOR 
           AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE IN THE ``SIEGE OF SAVANNAH''

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                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 12, 2008

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in appreciation of the 
significant Haitian contribution to the American fight for 
independence. A pioneering band of 500 Haitians volunteered at the 
inception of this Nation's great story, laying life and limb on the 
line for the cause of liberty. That effort left an indelible mark on 
history, drawing the largest unit of soldiers of African descent to 
fight in the `Siege of Savannah.'
  It is the highest expression of selflessness and generosity to brush 
aside geopolitical divisions and serve nobly in support of another 
nation. We salute these valiant men--over 300 of which were killed on 
our soil--for helping secure and establish our great democracy, for 
answering the call in defense of neighbors, in defense of friends.
  That island nation has, over the years, proven its commitment to 
courage--leading a successful battle for independence of its own and 
repudiating early the pernicious institution of slavery, Hundreds of 
years later, we have not forgotten.

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