[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 96 (Monday, July 8, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1013-E1014]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  STAN MUSIAL VETERANS MEMORIAL BRIDGE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 25, 2013

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong and enthusiastic 
support of H.R. 2383, which designates the portion of the new 
Interstate 70 bridge over the Mississippi River connecting St. Louis 
and southwestern Illinois as the ``Stan Musial Veterans Memorial 
Bridge.'' I support this legislation not only because it will ease 
traffic congestion and make transportation easier across state lines, 
but also because it honors a great American and one of the most beloved 
figures in the storied history of St. Louis, Missouri.
  Stan ``The Man'' Musial is a prime example of determination as seen 
through his athletic career and being named as the one of the greatest 
hitters in baseball history. His athletic achievements show the 
strength and hard work he put forth in order to achieve the dreams he 
dreamt of at a young age. He not only is a baseball hero that many 
remember, but a iconic hero that gave St. Louis one of its historical 
markers. Today, we can see how the city admires this star leader with 
his proud history all over the city and the tribute made to him outside 
of the Cardinals baseball stadium.
  Not only was Stan Musial's baseball career an example of his 
determination, but his willingness to serve the country as seen through 
his service in the United States Navy reflects his notable character as 
well. Stan Musial served as a Seaman First Class (E3) and was given the 
honorable Navy Memorial's Lone Sailor Award which honors Navy veterans 
who've excelled in civilian life.
  With this notable athlete and veteran in our history, it is the least 
that can be done to name this structure as a memorial and sign of this 
great individual. This bridge will allow for easier transportation 
across the Mississippi River and allow for greater access to both 
Illinois and Missouri. With projects such as this, we will be able to 
promote growth, sustain national and international trade, as well as 
ensure that our citizens are able to take advantage of proper 
infrastructure.
  Again, I congratulate the members of the Missouri and Illinois 
delegation for brokering

[[Page E1014]]

the compromise reflected in this legislation. The Stan Musial Veterans 
Memorial Bridge is strong and sturdy and made of steel, just like Stan 
Musial and the veterans who risked their lives to keep us free.

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