[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1072]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF ``TAPS''

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                             HON. TOM REED

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 19, 2012

  Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 150th 
anniversary of the writing of ``Taps,'' a song I have worked tirelessly 
here in Congress to recognize as the National Song of Remembrance for 
those who have served our country.
  Much like ``The Star-Spangled Banner'' and ``The Stars and Stripes 
Forever,'' which were born from the winds of war, ``Taps'' shares a 
similar history. In July 1862, following the Seven Days battles, Union 
General Daniel Butterfield and bugler Oliver Willcox Norton created 
``Taps'' at Berkley Plantation, Virginia, as a way to signal the end of 
daily military activities. Since that time, ``Taps'' has become known 
throughout the United States as part of the military honors accorded at 
funerals, memorial services, and wreath ceremonies held for members of 
the uniformed services and veterans who have faithfully served our 
nation during times of war and peace.
  The designation of ``Taps'' as the National Song of Remembrance is 
timely because the 150th anniversary of the writing of ``Taps'' will be 
observed with events culminating this month, June 2012, with a 
rededication of the Taps Monument at Berkley Plantation, Virginia. I am 
proud that the House of Representatives passed this language as a 
tribute to honor those that have fallen in service of our country.

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