[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 5]
[House]
[Page 5753]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE 87TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY OF 
                  VIRGIN ISLANDS FROM DENMARK TO U.S.

  (Mrs. CHRISTENSEN asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as my beloved U.S. Virgin 
Islands celebrates the 87th anniversary of the transfer of sovereignty 
from Denmark to the United States of America.
  On March 31, 1917, our American journey began in earnest as we became 
an official part of the American family. While that journey was 
predated by a friendship with the United States that began during the 
Revolutionary War, we are told by our grandmothers that on that spring 
day long ago there were tears of joy and sadness as they said good-bye 
to the old and welcomed the new.
  Today, we are proud Americans serving in all of its wars, rejoicing 
at its accomplishments, and working with our brothers and sisters to 
meet its challenges in health care, education, and social justice.
  We have not forgotten, however, our shared history of over 250 years 
with Denmark as we welcome tourists seeking Caribbean roots, apprentice 
our children to learn of shared craftsmanship, and share the archival 
materials we have in common.
  Mr. Speaker, the uniqueness of the U.S. Virgin Islands can be found 
in its relationship to many nations, as it has been a cultural 
crossroads for people the world over.
  Today, on March 31, 2004, we celebrate the roots of our diversity as 
we celebrate yet another Transfer Day.

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