[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 158 (Tuesday, September 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2162]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               SUPPORTING VETERANS IN AUBURN, WASHINGTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. REICHERT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 29, 2008

  Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the city 
of Auburn, WA, the Auburn City Council and Mayor Pete Lewis for 
exemplary and steadfast support of the Washington National Guard. They 
demonstrated their patriotism and support for the military in their 
quick and sincere actions to create an event to honor the deployment of 
the 81st Heavy Combat Brigade of the Washington National Guard on 
August 19, 2008.
  Auburn, located in the 8th District of Washington, the District I 
represent, is not unlike many communities around the country where 
budgets are tight and funds are allocated only after careful 
consideration. However, in this case, Auburn and its able leadership 
approved, without any hesitation, city resources to secure a location 
and provide funds to support a family BBQ with a festival-like 
atmosphere for deploying Guardsmen and their families. Hundreds of 
Guard families and Auburn residents showed up to participate in the 
event and enjoy the send off activities.
  Auburn's action in this instance reflects a deep and great respect 
for service members and veterans and is the latest example of their 
steadfast commitment. Every November, Auburn hosts one of the largest 
Veterans Day parades on the west coast of the United States. Their 
Veterans Park is a permanent reminder of the city's dedication and 
affection for veterans. Under Mayor Lewis and the current City Council, 
Auburn is taking the lead in Washington in supporting the military and 
our many brave veterans and I applaud their efforts.

                          ____________________