[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9504]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            NATIONAL FORMER PRISONER OF WAR RECOGNITION DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELLEN O. TAUSCHER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 9, 2003

  Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Americans who 
are currently serving our country, and those who have served so 
gallantly in the past. Particularly during this time of war, America's 
heroes of the past, as well as the present, must be honored and 
remembered. As such, I join Congressman Hoyer and Congressman Skelton 
to recognize today as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.
  These soldiers, captured while fighting for freedom and the future of 
America, faced imprisonment with their fates unknown. These brave men 
and women looked their enemy in the face, persevered with honor, 
courage, and faith in their country--and survived. Many, however, were 
not so fortunate.
  The ordeal of being a prisoner of war does not end once rescued from 
behind enemy lines. The physical, emotional, and spiritual toll of 
internment can take years, even a lifetime, to rebuild and overcome.
  As former prisoners of war, you have gone beyond the call of your 
duty. You put your life, your blood, your soul on the line. This is a 
sacrifice most of us will never be able to comprehend. That burden, 
that sacrifice, that unfettered dedication to our country will forever 
make you national heroes.
  We owe an inexpressible debt of gratitude to you, our former POWs, 
and to your families, whose prayers for a safe return were answered.
  Today we honor you for your bravery, strength, and sacrifice. And 
tomorrow we will not forget.

                          ____________________