[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 6 (Tuesday, January 13, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E56]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE 113TH ANNIVERSARY OF KOREAN AMERICAN DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 13, 2015

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I join the 
nation in celebrating the 113th Anniversary of Korean American Day this 
January 13, 2015. The Korean American community has been an integral 
part of our American fabric, and I am honored to recognize their vital 
role in shaping communities throughout our great Nation.
  Since the first Koreans arrived on the shores of Honolulu, Hawaii, on 
this date in 1903, they have excelled and shown that the American Dream 
is alive. Whether in military, education, science, business, sports or 
the arts, Korean Americans proved that with hard work, dedication and 
zeal for education, they can thrive and help make America even greater.
  My time fighting in the Korean War gave me an enduring personal 
connection to Korea and its people. Since returning home from my 
service over six decades ago, I have witnessed South Korea's rise from 
a war-torn nation to becoming the world's 13th-largest economy, a 
transformation which has been largely driven by the resilience and 
industriousness of the Korean people. Here in America, Koreans have 
inspired us with the same entrepreneurialism and perseverance toward 
building success and wealth for their communities.
  As a native and longtime Congressman of New York City, I am proud of 
its Korean American community and the greatness they contribute to our 
City and State. I applaud the services provided by many Korean American 
organizations to the Greater New York region, including free legal and 
medical help, immigration workshops, scholarship opportunities, and 
various cultural events. Koreans raise strong families and build 
successful businesses, active civic associations, churches, and 
charities that enhance our local economy and culture.
  I am proud to serve as Honorary Chairman of the Congressional Caucus 
on Korea, and join my Colleagues and Korean American friends in 
celebrating their many milestones and triumphs. The Korean people will 
always have a very special place in my heart. I look forward to the 
continued friendship I cherish so much.

                          ____________________