[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 16211-16212]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     REMEMBERING MINNESOTA'S ``GREATEST GENERATION'' AS MINNESOTA 
                COMMEMORATES STATE WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 18, 2007

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to 
rise in tribute to the ``Greatest Generation'' of Minnesotans. On June 
9, 2007, an estimated 12,000 Minnesotans gathered on the state capitol 
grounds to offer this long-overdue commemoration for our State's World 
War II veterans.
  The Minnesota World War II Memorial has an honored place, reflecting 
the sacrifices of those who served and those who died to protect our 
freedom. It provides a solemn reminder of past great sacrifices on 
behalf of our nation, but also gives us an important opportunity to 
properly thank the brave men and women in uniform fighting every day 
around the world.
  Six decades ago, 16 million fought for freedom in the war, and more 
than 400,000 died. Although fought ``over there,'' World War II had 
immense local impact. Approximately 326,000 Minnesota men and women 
enlisted in the military, leaving school, jobs and families behind. 
Nearly 6000 Minnesotans died. The war touched every life in some way as 
countless more men, women and children supported the war from the home 
front.
  On May 29, 2004, I had the great honor of joining many of Minnesota's 
World War II veterans and their families in Washington, DC for the 
dedication of the National World War II Memorial. These veterans 
exemplify the spirit and sacrifice of America's Greatest Generation. My 
father served in the Armed Services during World War II, so this 
dedication is especially meaningful to me. As an auxiliary member of 
the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, I remain 
committed to ensuring that all our veterans receive the benefits and 
honor that they have earned.
  Madam Speaker, please join with me and all Minnesotans in paying 
tribute to the Greatest Generation. They deserve our highest respect, 
gratitude and the support they were promised.

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