[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 79 (Tuesday, May 15, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E656]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        IN CELEBRATION OF MISSISSIPPI'S FIRST GOLD STAR MEMORIAL

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                         HON. STEVEN M. PALAZZO

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 15, 2018

  Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to announce the unveiling of a 
new monument in my district, the first of its kind in Mississippi. 
Today, at the Armed Forces Museum, located at Camp Shelby, a Gold Star 
Memorial will be introduced to beloved families and friends of our Gold 
Star veterans, while military officers, dignitaries, elected officials, 
and others take a first look at this worthy and timely piece of art, 
history, and honor.
  Fortunately, the state of Mississippi, especially my Congressional 
District, is comprised of thousands of citizens who support and defend 
American values, including a powerful, respected, highly trained 
military fighting force.
  Our Gold Star families are special to us. Many would agree that a 
soldier who gives his or her life in service is the ultimate citizen; 
however, we must also know that those who support that soldier at home 
deserve recognition, too. The sacrifices of the home-front exist in 
partnership with the service member's commitment to ``protect and 
defend this nation against enemies, both foreign and domestic.'' 
Approximately 1,100 Gold Star families reside in Mississippi, and the 
list has grown by nearly 400 names since the Gulf War. They all deserve 
to be remembered.
  The location of the first Gold Star Memorial in Mississippi reflects 
our deep history of military service and sacrifice. Since World War I, 
Camp Shelby has served as one of America's most respected training and 
mobilization sites for various military branches. It was the second 
largest training facility during World War II, and has served as a 
major training installation ever since. I am proud to be part of the 
Camp Shelby legacy myself, as well as the U. S. Representative for 
thousands of families associated with this historic location.
  Five Gold Star Memorials will be placed at various points around 
Mississippi, to include Meridian, Tupelo, the Jackson area, and the 
Gulf Coast. I am grateful to be part of the unveiling at Camp Shelby, 
in Mississippi's Fighting Fourth Congressional District.

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