[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 116 (Friday, July 2, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





    COMMEMORATING THE CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY OF FIRST LADY NANCY REAGAN

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                            HON. MIKE GARCIA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, July 2, 2021

  Mr. GARCIA of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today, joined by my 
colleagues, Rep. McCarthy, Rep. Calvert, Rep. Issa, Rep. Nunes, Rep. 
McClintock, Rep. LaMalfa, Rep. Valadao, and Rep. Obernolte to 
commemorate the birthday of one of our Nation's greatest First Ladies 
and a true American patriot. 100 years ago, on July 6th, Nancy Reagan 
was born. Throughout her lifetime she served in many roles--from movie 
star to loving mother, from First Lady of both California and the 
United States to distinguished philanthropist. No matter her position, 
she fulfilled her duties with grace, elegance, and above all: class.
  As First Lady of California, Nancy became involved with important 
charitable work, including visiting Vietnam war veterans, homes for the 
elderly, and schools for physically and emotionally handicapped 
children. She participated in events raising awareness about prisoners 
of war and service members missing in action. She also promoted the 
Foster Grandparent Program, a volunteer opportunity for older Americans 
to mentor, guide, and care for children with exceptional needs. This 
program continues to make important contributions to this day.
  As First Lady during President Reagan's two terms, she spearheaded 
the re-beautification of the White House, restoring it to its rightful 
former glory. She also led the charge on educating our Nation's youth 
on the dangers of drug use and addiction, teaching a generation of 
children and young adults to ``Just Say No.'' In 1985, she hosted First 
Ladies from across the world for a briefing in Washington and Atlanta 
on the topic of drug abuse and what can be done to help those who are 
suffering from it. Her drive to educate young people about the dangers 
of illicit drugs demonstrates her commitment to the future of our 
Nation.
  After her time in the White House, Nancy had a profound impact in our 
own communities through her support of the Reagan Library in Simi 
Valley. It was through her guidance and influence that the Reagan 
Library became one of the most esteemed centers for learning and 
presidential scholarships in the country. She also continued the push 
to educate people on the perils of substance abuse and established the 
Nancy Reagan Foundation and the Nancy Reagan Afterschool Program to 
support this mission.
  After President Reagan passed away, she became a leading advocate for 
individuals suffering from Alzheimer's Disease and their caregivers. 
Nancy worked with the National Alzheimer's Association and its 
affiliate, the Ronald and Nancy Reagan Research Institute in Chicago, 
Illinois, to find a cure or treatment for this terrible disease that 
plagues so many in our country. She courageously continued President 
Reagan's legacy in serving our country until her death in 2016. She is 
buried on the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library grounds next to her 
husband.
  On the centennial of her birth, we commend Mrs. Reagan for her 
service to our communities, the State of California, and the United 
States of America.

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