[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 79 (Monday, May 13, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S2782]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MICHIGAN'S VETERANS

  Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, today I wish to pay special tribute to 
Michigan residents who have given their lives while serving in our 
Nation's Armed Forces and their families.
  As long as Michigan has been a State--and even before--our people 
have been willing to put their lives on the line in defense of this 
Nation. From the War of 1812, to the Civil War, the World Wars, Korea, 
Vietnam, the Cold War, and the fight against terrorism, the people of 
Michigan have raised their hand when called upon and stood to the very 
end.
  That was never more true than on December 7, 1941.
  That morning, 2,341 American servicemembers lost their lives when 
Pearl Harbor was attacked. More than 30 of those who died were from 
Michigan.
  This spring, I had the opportunity to honor their sacrifice in person 
when I visited Pearl Harbor with Senate colleagues.
  It is difficult to explain just how moving it is to see Battleship 
Row and to gaze down at the USS Arizona, so quiet and still in those 
clear blue waters. I thought about what it must have been like that 
Sunday morning, a day that began like any other, but which would live 
in infamy.
  Imagine being barely out of high school, far from home, and on the, 
threshold of war. Imagine being aboard a ship that is coming under 
attack. Imagine the fearful realization that this might be where your 
story ends.
  These veterans gave everything for us. It is our solemn duty to keep 
the promises we have made to them.
  My own father served in the Navy during World War II. Being there at 
Pearl Harbor reminded me of his sacrifice and the sacrifices made by 
all of our veterans, especially those we have lost. On Memorial Day and 
every day, let's give them our heartfelt thanks, surround their 
families with love, and honor their sacrifice.
  Thank you.

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