[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 8540]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                             CINCO DE MAYO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES W. STENHOLM

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 5, 2004

  Mr. STENHOLM. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to reflect on this 
important day in history where a relatively small group of valiant men 
met and overcame tremendous odds to bring hope and unity to a 
struggling nation.
  On Cinco de Mayo, 1862, General Zaragoza led an untrained and 
outmatched group of 2,000 Mexican fighters to defend the town of Puebla 
against the French. Under the command of Napoleon III, these 6,000 
French soldiers were among the best-trained and best-equipped armies in 
the world. However, their sophisticated armor and weapons were no match 
for the iron will and solidarity of the Mexican people.
  Their victory became a symbol of the pride and patriotism of the 
Mexican people, who defended themselves against a superior force. In 
the United States, Cinco de Mayo has become a celebration of the 
achievements and rich contributions Hispanics have made to our great 
nation, as well as a reminder of the values and freedoms all Americans 
hold so dear.
  Hispanics in my Congressional District, and across the nation, have 
added much to the cultural fabric of our country. As the fastest-
growing minority population in the nation, they are a driving force in 
the U.S.--economically, politically, and socially.
  That is why I am proud to cosponsor House Concurrent Resolution 163, 
a resolution which recognizes the historical significance of Cinco de 
Mayo and calls upon the American people to observe the date with 
appropriate festivities. I know in West Texas, folks are participating 
in local festivals and gatherings to commemorate Mexico's victory at 
Puebla.
  Hispanics share with other Americans the common goals of freedom, 
opportunity, and a chance to build a better life. I am happy to be here 
and remember this momentous day as we are reminded that all people--
regardless of their race, color, creed, or gender--deserve the 
opportunity to experience liberty, freedom and the right to self-
determination. America stands behind these ideals and appreciates the 
contributions of Hispanics everywhere.

                          ____________________