[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 201 (Friday, December 23, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1353]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE AFRICAN AMERICAN VETERANS MONUMENT IN BUFFALO, NEW YORK

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                           HON. CHRIS JACOBS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 23, 2022

  Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join the 
Western New York Community in commending the honorable service of 
African American veterans throughout the history of the United States 
military.
  The recently unveiled African American Veterans Monument in Buffalo, 
New York, highlights the contributions made by African American service 
members to our country. These contributions cannot be understated.
  I commend all who supported the development and construction of this 
project, including the Erie County Chapter of the Links for taking the 
steps necessary to honor these veterans. This unique monument now 
stands as a symbol and reminder on the Buffalo waterfront to all 
Western New Yorkers of the sacrifices that these brave individuals made 
to preserve our freedoms.
  From the Revolutionary War onwards, 2.1 million African Americans 
served this country with unconditional valor. Over 90 African Americans 
have been awarded the Medal of Honor, our nation's preeminent military 
commendation. Out of admiration for these esteemed veterans, many of 
Western New York's community leaders banded together to demonstrate our 
thanks for their sacrifices--a gesture that many of us believe is long 
overdue.
  The symbolism undergirding this monument uniquely pairs with the 
traits displayed by the generations of African American men and women 
who have served our country. Located at the Erie County Naval & 
Military Park, the monument consists of 12 pillars representing the 12 
military conflicts in which these veterans demonstrated their strength, 
courage, and patriotism. The top of each pillar is illuminated by a 
beacon of light, referencing the practice that active-duty military 
families used to guide their loved ones home. These illuminations will 
glow eternally, along with our nation's everlasting appreciation to its 
African American servicemembers.
  We must continue to recognize and commemorate those who sacrificed on 
behalf of our nation and fought on our country's many historic 
battlefields. Our selfless and courageous African American veterans of 
Western New York and the greater United States will forever be 
remembered within our local community. It is my honor to represent 
these veterans, along with the members of our community who crafted 
this historic monument.

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