[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 65 (Wednesday, April 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E709]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE MODERN STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

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                               speech of

                            HON. JOHN LEWIS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 22, 2008

  Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues as a proud 
original cosponsor of this important resolution.
  I congratulate our brothers and sisters in Israel on this important 
milestone--the 60th anniversary of becoming an independent nation. From 
the first hour on that first day, Israel and the United States began a 
relationship based on democratic values, friendship and respect that 
continues to this day.
  Over the years, Israel has developed into a thriving society, a world 
leader, and an active democracy. Welcoming people from Russia to 
Ethiopia, Israel has become a refuge for those persecuted for thousands 
of years.
  In fact, many of my constituents have traveled or lived in Israel. In 
2005, we made history when Atlanta became the first U.S. city in the 
Southeast to have non-stop direct flights to Tel Aviv.
  I, too, have a personal connection with the people of Israel--like 
me, they are descended from survivors. The atrocities of the holocaust 
must never be forgotten. Every day, we must recommit ourselves to never 
allow this history to be repeated. We have overcome so many trials and 
hardships, but there is still so much farther to go.
  It is my hope that one day, together we will be able to celebrate 
peaceful relationships and coexistence with all the countries in the 
Middle East. And I hope that this peace comes long before another 60 
years.
  Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest congratulations to the Israeli 
people on this historic day.

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