[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 24553]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                      TRIBUTE TO ALBANIAN FLAG DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 6, 2001

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join the Albanian American 
community in celebrating the 89th anniversary of Albanian Flag Day 
which symbolizes Albania's independence.
  On November 28, 1912 Albania declared its independence by raising its 
flag in the coastal town of Vlora. Since that glorious day, Albania has 
endured many hardships but has managed to persevere. The conflict that 
occurred in Kosova only a short time ago tested Albania and its people. 
Albania and its proud citizens are entering into a new era of 
political, social, and cultural growth. They possess a focused vision 
of their future and will do all they feel is necessary to ensure 
prosperity.
  The United States relationship with Albania is strong and growing 
stronger. This was evident when Albania pledged its support to us in 
the wake of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Today, the 
United States is enriched by the many Albanian Americans living here. 
They have made major contributions to nearly every facet of American 
society. The Albanian community adds to the wonderfully diverse 
American culture by sharing with us their customs and beliefs.
  Mr. Speaker, I join the people of Albania, those of Albanian ancestry 
around the world and Albanian Americans in celebrating Albanian Flag 
Day. I salute all of them for the tremendous contributions to freedom 
and human dignity which they have made.

                          ____________________