[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 8]
[House]
[Page 10242]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            CELEBRATING THE 227TH BIRTHDAY OF THE U.S. ARMY

  (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow will mark the 
227th birthday of the United States Army, the most powerful ground 
force the world has ever known. Since June 14, 1775, the Army has 
always been prepared for defense of freedom and democracy. Today, our 
brave soldiers are on the front lines defending the American people in 
the war on terrorism.
  As we recognize and celebrate the Army's birthday and reflect on this 
great institution, a simple truth arises: one of the world's greatest 
professions is the Profession of Arms, and one of the greatest callings 
is theirs, serving our Nation. Thanks to American soldiers, freedom's 
light shines as a beacon throughout the world.
  Just yesterday, we were reminded of the dangers these men and women 
have volunteered to accept, as we learned of three American military 
that died in a plane crash. These are not only soldiers fighting on 
some distant soil, they are sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, 
mothers and fathers. The courage and dedication of those who serve so 
honorably in the United States Army, Active, Guard and Reserve, is an 
inspiration to us all.

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