[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 22387]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



     DEDICATION OF THE PURPLE HEART MONUMENT IN PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY

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                           HON. MARGE ROUKEMA

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 13, 2001

  Mrs. ROUKEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Military Order 
of the Purple Heart Chapter 522 of Paramus, New Jersey, as they 
dedicate a Purple Heart Monument today in Paramus. In this time of 
remembrance for those killed on September 11th, it is important to 
remember all who have put their lives on the line for our nation. Our 
nation's veterans offer us wisdom and guidance in these troubled times. 
I thank Chapter 522 for honoring our veterans as we support and defend 
our country in this new war.
  Decades ago, President Ronald Reagan addressed the Memorial Day 
ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery. His words were profound: 
``No one wants peace more than the soldier, for the soldier understands 
better than anyone, the pain and destruction of war.'' Implicit in his 
message is that preserving the peace is an everyday job. It's a job 
that requires hard work. It's a job that requires firm resolution. It's 
a job that absolutely requires sacrifice.
  I stand here today and honor the Military Order of the Purple Heart 
with great pride. These are the Americans who have done the hard work. 
Who have displayed the firm resolution. Who have sacrificed. These are 
our nation's heroes.
  As we commemorate those who have fought for our country with this 
Purple Heart Monument, the eyes of the nation turn to the service and 
sacrifice of our veterans. Our nation thanks you.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Chapter 522 
of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and all who have served and 
those who have died for our country. May God bless them and God bless 
America.

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