[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 72 (Tuesday, May 13, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E746]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING ISRAEL'S 66TH INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 6, 2014

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the state of 
Israel and its people on the 66th anniversary of Israel's founding.
  Israel is the only stable democracy in the Middle East and the United 
States' closest ally and friend. Our relationship, built on trust, 
shared values and a common experience, serves to advance the cause of 
democracy and freedom worldwide.
  Israel is the homeland of the Jewish people. It has been the 
spiritual center for Jews for thousands of years. In recent years, 
Israel has become a hub of technology and innovation. In 66 short 
years, the Jewish people have built a thriving economy in the shadow of 
their ancient ruins.
  Last month, I stood at the Babi Yar memorial in Ukraine. Alone at the 
site of a massacre with only a yahrtzeit candle flickering, where 
Einzatzgruppen killed tens of thousands of Jews, I reflected on my 
heritage. My four grandparents were from Ukraine, and I've often 
thought that if it weren't for their foresight in leaving Ukraine when 
they did, I would never have been born. I reflected on the thousands 
who have been killed because of their faith.
  While Israel was not founded because of the Holocaust, the Holocaust 
is a powerful reminder of what the world could look like without a safe 
haven for the Jewish people. Israel is its own protector and the United 
States must stand with Israel as Israel seeks to defend itself against 
existential threats.
  As we celebrate Israel's Independence Day, we also remember those who 
have fallen in service to their country. I am proud to stand here in 
celebration of the freedoms that Israel stands for.

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