[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 23705-23706]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   IN HONOR OF GOLD STAR MOTHER'S DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. TIMOTHY H. BISHOP

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 30, 2003

  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
the Gold Star Mothers of America, a Congressionally chartered 
organization, and the celebration of Gold Star Mother's Day. This event 
was held on Sunday to commemorate the significant sacrifices and 
contributions of the Gold Star Mothers.
  In 1936, by proclamation of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the 
Congress concurring, the last Sunday of every September is dedicated to 
``the greatest source of the Country's strength and inspiration'', the 
American mother. I am proud to honor these women who have shown the 
utmost courage in supporting the goals of this Nation. Each member of 
the American Gold Star Mothers has dealt valiantly with the 
overwhelming suffering that accompanies the loss of a son or daughter, 
yet they continue to believe in the good of America, our veterans and 
the armed forces.
  As our country continues to engage in struggle overseas, we are 
increasingly dependent on the good works of organizations like the Gold 
Star Mothers. Wherever they exist, the Gold Star Mothers perpetuate the 
ideals for which, their sons and daughters fought and died. They strive 
to assist veterans and veterans' organizations across the country while 
offering support to each other and a newly grieving nation.
  This past Sunday, government buildings and individuals across the 
world showed their true appreciation for the Gold Star Mothers by 
flying the U.S. flag and holding public gatherings. At America's 
preeminent resting-place for American soldiers, Arlington National 
Cemetery, a solemn gathering and wreath laying ceremony was held at the 
Tomb of the Unknowns.
  The dedication and triumphs of the Gold Star Mothers stem from a 
shared bond. As they describe it, ``The success of our organization 
continues because of the bond of mutual

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love, sympathy, and support of the many loyal, capable, and patriotic 
mothers who while sharing their grief and their pride, have channeled 
their time, efforts and gifts to lessening the pain of others. We stand 
tall and proud by honoring our children, assisting our veterans, 
supporting our nation, and healing with each other.''
  It is important that we take time to recognize such a laudable 
organization as the American Gold Star Mothers. I am consistently 
impressed with their dedication to our Country, Armed Services, 
veterans and of course, to their own children.
  Through only the greatest hardship can membership in the American 
Gold Star Mothers be accorded. Our country is forever indebted to them 
for their ability to transform their grief into positive action and 
undying dedication to the past, present and future heroes of this 
Nation.

                          ____________________