[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 105 (Thursday, July 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1345]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE OF GUATEMALA, HONDURAS AND EL SALVADOR 
                      AFTER TROPICAL STORM AGATHA

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. MICHAEL E. McMAHON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 30, 2010

  Mr. McMAHON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1462, 
stating our nation's unequivocal support for those people of Guatemala, 
Honduras, and El Salvador who have been affected by Tropical Storm 
Agatha. In the aftermath of the storm, mudslides and sinkholes formed, 
not only marring the natural beauty of these countries, but also 
causing immense amounts of damage and suffering.
  Hundreds of people lost their lives, and tens of thousands were 
displaced from their homes. Food shortages, destruction of 
infrastructure, economic losses in agriculture, and damages to vital 
buildings will inevitably adversely affect these countries for a long 
time to come.
  These Latin American nations represent crucial U.S. allies in the 
region and key economic trading partners. It is in the interest of our 
economic stability and national security to help them through these 
tough times.
  Our own experiences from Hurricanes Rita and Katrina remind us that 
we are all vulnerable to the cruel whims of nature. We will never 
forget how many countries around the world stood with us during those 
trying times for our nation, and we need to stand with Guatemala, 
Honduras, and El Salvador now.
  I commend the United States Southern Command for providing food, 
water, and necessary supplies to the victims of these natural 
disasters. We have not been alone in providing assistance to the 
disaster areas; the international community has come together in 
support of those who have been affected, contributing millions of 
dollars in medical supplies and other assistance.
  I urge the House of Representatives to keep in mind today those lives 
and livelihoods that have been destroyed in the aftermath of this 
disaster by supporting this resolution.

                          ____________________