[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 78 (Wednesday, May 20, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1212]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   URGING ALL AMERICANS AND PEOPLE OF ALL NATIONALITIES TO VISIT THE 
      NATIONAL CEMETERIES, MEMORIALS, AND MARKERS ON MEMORIAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. PHIL GINGREY

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 19, 2009

  Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as an original 
cosponsor, to voice my strong support for H. Res. 360, which urges 
Americans and people of every nationality to visit national cemeteries, 
memorials, and markers on this upcoming Memorial Day.
  Today, we rightfully take time to recognize the men and women who 
have dedicated their lives to the service of our nation. We are proud 
of all of our servicemen and women and are eternally grateful for their 
efforts in the Global War on Terror. Indeed, the democracy on display 
here today with our presence in this chamber is testament to the 
courage and valor of our Armed Services.
  Memorial Day is a federal holiday to celebrate the lives of those 
that have died while defending our nation. The soldiers, sailors, 
airmen, and marines who have served in our Armed Services deserve the 
utmost respect from our nation, and those that have died have made the 
ultimate sacrifice for the liberties that we enjoy every day.
  It is at their final resting place that there will forever be 
enshrined the spirit of American generosity, sacrifice, and courage 
that our brave men and women have so graciously provided in defense of 
our freedom.
  Let us also honor and say a gracious thank you to each and every 
military family member for the encouragement, love, and kindness they 
exhibit in supporting their precious loved ones as they serve a nation 
that will forever be free because of their sacrifice. It is to the 
family members that we say thank you now.
  Mr. Speaker, I believe it will be a worthwhile endeavor to spend time 
on this holiday remembering the sacrifice our heroes have made for 
America. I encourage every American to visit our national cemeteries 
and memorials so that they may take part in dedicating this holiday to 
the memory of the excellent men and women of our Armed Services who 
have spent a lifetime of service to America.
  I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

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