[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 71 (Thursday, May 17, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E834]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY COMMEMORATING MAY 19 AS ATATURK 
                          YOUTH AND SPORTS DAY

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                            HON. STEVE COHEN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 17, 2012

  Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate May 19 as a 
significant day in the history of our friend and ally the Republic of 
Turkey.
  In Turkey, May 19 is celebrated as the commemoration of Mustafa Kemal 
Ataturk, the Founder of the Republic of Turkey. It was on that day in 
1919 when Ataturk landed in the Black Sea port of Samsun and the war of 
independence began. After the war, he dedicated May 19 to Turkey's 
youth as a reminder that their ``first duty is to preserve and defend 
forever Turkish independence and the Turkish Republic.''
  He was an exceptional leader who understood that Islam and modernity 
are not inconsistent--an important factor to reinforce today with 
democratic leaders throughout the Muslim world.
  Ataturk went on to build a republic based on universal values, 
secularism, equal rights and democracy under the rule of law--from a 
disintegrating Ottoman Empire. He understood that advances in women's 
rights, education, science and technology were crucial to his vision of 
creating a nation as proud members of the group of civilized nations.
  His reforms inspired President John F. Kennedy who said, ''The name 
Ataturk reminds mankind of the historical accomplishments of one of the 
greatest men of this century. His leadership gave inspiration to the 
Turkish nation, farsightedness in the understanding of the modern 
world, and courage and power as a military leader.''
  Recognizing the importance physical activity has in the health of our 
nations, the United States and Turkey have a shared vision of promoting 
the well-being of their nation's youths. Coinciding with Ataturk Youth 
and Sports Day, President Barack Obama has designated the month of May 
2012 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. These celebrations 
promote the value of physical activity in the pursuit of a happier, 
healthier and more productive nation.
  May is a very important month for the United States and Turkey--it's 
a month where we both honor the importance and health of our youth. 
What started on May 19, 1919 as a great leader beginning his 
inspirational journey to transform his people, has culminated in a 
yearly celebration of his vision becoming a reality. We should all 
learn a lesson from this man's life. A leader with motivation and 
determination can lay the roots for a great future.

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