[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 18, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1008-S1009]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
MORNING BUSINESS
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80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF RIVA RIDGE
Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a momentous
occasion for the U.S. Army and for the North Country. Today, February
18, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Riva Ridge during
World War II.
During this battle, on the slopes of the northern Apennine Mountains
in Italy, the 10th Mountain Division first ``Climbed to Glory'' and
delivered one of the most amazing and decisive victories in U.S.
military history.
In the face of grave danger and extreme adversity, the 10th Mountain
Division broke through German positions and paved the way for Italy's
liberation. Each soldier of the 10th Mountain Division demonstrated
extraordinary courage, resilience, and tactical brilliance, forcing the
German Army to retreat and providing a major boost to Allied efforts in
Europe.
This anniversary comes only days after the 40th anniversary of the
reactivation of the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum on February 13,
1985.
Since 1943, the 10th Mountain Division has stood as a pillar of
strength, resilience, and readiness, answering the call to serve in
nearly every major conflict our Nation has faced.
From the battlefields of World War II to the wars in Afghanistan and
Iraq, and now in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve and our NATO
allies, the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division have been at the
forefront of protecting our national security.
For more than two decades, they have been the most deployed unit in
the U.S. Army, demonstrating unparalleled commitment and courage in
defending our country and supporting our partners abroad.
But their contributions go beyond their battlefield successes. The
10th Mountain Division is shaping the future of our military--
pioneering advancements in mobility, rapid deployment, counter-UAS, and
the integration of cross-domain capabilities into training for large-
scale combat operations to build the Army of the future and will
strengthen our armed forces for years to come. With the activation of
elements of the 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force at Fort Drum this summer,
the installation's role in our national defense will continue to grow.
Fort Drum is more than a military base; it is a cornerstone of our
national security, and I am proud to have fought for the funding and
resources necessary to ensure its continued success. As we mark this
anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to the brave men and women
who serve at Fort Drum, ensuring they have the tools, training, and
support they need to defend our Nation.
``Climb to Glory!''
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