[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 86 (Friday, May 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1094]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    COMMEMORATING MAY 19 AS ATATURK, YOUTH AND SPORTS DAY IN TURKEY

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                           HON. JEAN SCHMIDT

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 22, 2008

  Mrs. SCHMIDT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate May 19 as a 
very significant day in the history of our dear friend the Republic of 
Turkey. In Turkey, May 19 is celebrated as the commemoration of Mustafa 
Kemal Ataturk, the Founder of the Republic of Turkey. It was May 19 in 
the year 1919 when Mustafa Kemal landed in the Black Sea port of Samsun 
and the war of independence began. Under his leadership less than a 
year later the Turkish Grand National Assembly was established and a 
few years later the Republic of Turkey was born a new nation.
  Ataturk had a vision for Turkey and he set about reforming her. His 
vision of a pro-western, secular, and democratic state under the rule 
of law quickly became reality.
  President John F. Kennedy said, ``The name Ataturk reminds mankind of 
the historical accomplishments of one of the greatest men of this 
century. His leadership gave inspiration to the Turkish nation, 
farsightedness in the understanding of the modern world, and courage 
and power as a military leader.''
  It was in 1934 that Ataturk demonstrated his commitment to the rights 
of women by giving them full political rights. He understood that a 
country can only flourish when it's people are truly free.
  My hero, General Douglas MacArthur described Ataturk better than most 
could ever attempt. ``He was a soldier-statesman, one of the greatest 
leaders of our era. He ensured that Turkey got its rightful place among 
the most advanced nations of the world.''
  May 19 is a very important day when it all began. On this day a great 
leader began his journey, a vision became reality and a great nation 
was born. We should all learn a lesson from this man's life. A leader 
with a vision coupled with determination can lay the roots for a great 
future. Turkey's neighbors who today wrestle with their own beginnings 
should take note.

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