[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 53 (Tuesday, April 14, 2015)]
[House]
[Pages H2162-H2163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
COMMEMORATING PRESIDENT LINCOLN'S DEATH
(Mr. MOOLENAAR asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Speaker, this week marks the 150th anniversary of
the tragic day an assassin's bullet took President Abraham Lincoln's
life.
There is no greater challenge than leading a nation through an armed
conflict against itself, one that divides families and longtime
friends.
When responding to criticism of his efforts to save the Union,
President Lincoln said, ``If the end brings me out all right, what is
said against me won't
[[Page H2163]]
amount to anything. If the end brings me out wrong, 10 angels swearing
I was right would make no difference.''
History has vindicated President Lincoln, and now, as War Secretary
Edwin Stanton said, he ``belongs to the ages.''
Through solemn, humble, and steadfast leadership, he guided our
Nation through the crisis--the horrific period of conflict between Fort
Sumter and Appomattox. Sustained by faith, he stood on principle to
preserve our country, to correct a nation's moral failing, and to lead
a government of, by, and for the people ever closer toward a more
perfect Union.
President Lincoln gave his life--his last full measure of devotion--
for our country, and he will forever be remembered for his heroic work
to preserve our United States of America.
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