[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 10 (Friday, January 16, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S657]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        2009 KOREAN AMERICAN DAY

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I rise in honor of Korean American Day, a 
time we set aside to commemorate the arrival of the first Korean 
immigrants to the United States, more than 100 years ago. Since those 
original 102 immigrants set foot on our shores on January 13, 1903, the 
population of Korean Americans has grown to almost 2 million, bringing 
a wealth of talent, rich cultural heritage, and innovation to our 
Nation. In particular, Korean Americans have demonstrated tremendous 
bravery and skill in our country's armed forces, serving with 
distinction during both World Wars and the conflict in Korea.
  Around 12,000 Korean Americans live in our own great State of Nevada, 
where they form a substantial part of Nevada's growing Asian 
community--in fact, Nevada's percentage of Asian Americans is now 
nearly 2 percent greater than the national average. Their 
entrepreneurial spirit has especially made significant contributions to 
Nevada's business sector, and I personally greatly admire and share 
their emphasis on the importance of strong family ties. As someone 
whose own life was transformed by education, I also commend the drive 
to academic excellence and pursuit of higher education which has led 
many Korean Americans to our country. As the Nevadan Korean-American 
community continues to increase, they enrich our state with this 
emphasis on close-knit families, a focus on cooperation, and a strong 
work ethic that has contributed to so much of their success.
  Beyond our borders, the United States and South Korea share a long-
standing, harmonious friendship. Our strategic partnership has brought 
substantial benefits to both our countries, and I look forward to a 
continued future of mutual cooperation.
  I add my congratulations to all those joining together at events and 
ceremonies across our country to recognize and honor Korean Americans' 
vibrant role in our society. The United States and Nevada have 
benefited greatly from their contributions, and I look forward to 
continuing to serve my Korea-American constituents as the senior 
Senator from Nevada.

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