[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 168 (Tuesday, November 10, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Pages S11336-S11337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE MARINE CORPS

  Mr. BURRIS. Mr. President, 234 years ago today, a group of American 
patriots gathered to found a new branch of the Armed Forces.
  They organized and trained a robust fighting force that has 
distinguished itself time and again in the years since that day.
  In 1805, these brave warriors were ordered into battle by President 
Jefferson. They fought for safe passage of American ships and American 
citizens, defending our fledgling nation against a grave new threat.
  In fact, they carried this fight halfway around the world to the city 
of Derne, on the shores of Tripoli.
  And 40 years later, at the height of the Mexican-American War, this 
fighting force again proved their bravery.
  They charged enemy positions at Chapultepec Castle, eventually 
capturing the enemy capital, and leading U.S. forces into the very 
halls of Montezuma.
  In these defining moments, from the halls of Montezuma to the shores 
of Tripoli, the legend of the United States Marine Corps was born.

[[Page S11337]]

  Since the early days of our Republic, the Marines have been at the 
forefront of America's defenses.
  And in every subsequent conflict from the days of the Revolution to 
the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan these brave warriors have proven their 
mettle, and put their lives on the line to defend our freedom.
  For their sacrifice, their bravery, and their heroism, they deserve 
the praise and thanks of a grateful nation.
  So, to every man and woman who has worn the uniform of the U.S. 
Marines: we thank you. And we owe you our very best.
  As a member of the Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees, I 
am inspired by stories of those who serve almost on a daily basis.
  And I will work with my colleagues to make sure this country keeps 
its commitment to these fine individuals.
  So this Veterans Day, as the Marines celebrate 234 years of 
distinguished service and brave sacrifice, let us all offer our utmost 
gratitude and support to all of those in uniform.
  Mr. BENNETT. Madam President, as we approach the commemoration of 
Veterans Day, I rise to speak in recognition of veterans across the 
country, but particularly those in Utah. In doing this, I wish to be 
careful to not allow the regularity of this topic diminish its 
significance or make our veterans seem ordinary. Those who know them 
best know they are anything but.
  When speaking of our veterans, perhaps we remember news clips of 
heroic jungle rescues, a frozen, rocket-blasted hill, or soldiers 
fighting bravely in the searing heat of the desert. We rightly 
celebrate them for what they did, but more than that--let us celebrate 
them for who they are.
  As meaningful as words of praise may be, they often are all we give 
to our veterans. It is too rare when we can present our veterans with a 
gift--a concrete reminder that this Nation honors those individuals who 
fight to keep us free. Today, I am especially pleased to recognize the 
opening of the George E. Wahlen Veterans' Nursing Home in Ogden, UT. On 
November 19, officials and the public will gather to commemorate the 
opening of the nursing home and present this impressive facility to the 
veterans of northern Utah. As with any major accomplishment, the list 
of people to thank stretches long, including public officials from 
local, State, and Federal Government, particularly State Representative 
Brad Dee and State Senator Pete Knudson who sponsored the legislation 
that made this all possible. However, I would also like to recognize 
two Utah veterans, whose contributions made this project a reality.
  Terry Schow is a Vietnam veteran and the director of the Utah 
Department of Veterans Affairs. His efforts to reach out to his fellow 
veterans are not confined to his professional obligations. Rather, his 
passion and unmistakable tenacity give power to his fundamental belief 
that kind words simply are not enough when it comes to caring for our 
veterans. Determined to make sure that all veterans receive the support 
they deserve, Terry was instrumental in seeing that no bureaucratic or 
logistical obstacle prevented the creation of the veterans' nursing 
home.
  Finally, I wish to speak of the late George Wahlen. A World War II 
veteran and recipient of the Medal of Honor, George passed away on June 
5, 2009, just 5 months before completion of the facility that he fought 
so hard to establish. Along with several of his colleagues, George made 
the repeated trek to the Capitol building in Salt Lake City, UT, to 
persuade legislators of the need to provide funding for a veterans' 
nursing home in northern Utah. It is noteworthy that in fighting for 
the needed funding, George never sought any personal benefit. He never 
knew the nursing home would be named in his honor. Instead, at a time 
when he could have retired and spent his life in comfort and quiet, he 
chose to take up this cause, a symbol of his dedication to the service 
of his fellow veterans. After numerous meetings, phone calls, and 
hearings, the persistence of George as well as dozens of other veterans 
paid off when on January 24, 2008, the State House, and later on 
February 29, 2008, the State Senate voted unanimously to advance all 
funding for the construction of the facility. This measure was then 
signed into law by Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. on March 18, 2008.
  For George Wahlen and Terry Schow, their work for their country and 
fellow servicemen did not end when they became veterans. These two men 
have inspired many of us in Utah by their integrity, character, and 
passion to ensure our country returns the favor for the many sacrifices 
made by our servicemen and women. You see, it is not that George or 
Terry or any number of veterans did this one single thing or that. What 
sets them apart is the character which leads them to do it again, and 
again. When honoring our veterans this Veterans Day, let us not forget 
their valiant acts of courage--but may we always remember their 
character.
  As a Senator, I am acutely aware of the many issues that face 
veterans. I am sure each of us would like to give them more. But, while 
much remains to be done, let the George E. Wahlen Veterans' Nursing 
Home in Ogden, UT, stand as undeniable evidence that America is a 
nation that honors its veterans.

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