[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 5]
[Senate]
[Page 6399]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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              RECOGNIZING THE LOUISIANA VETERANS FESTIVAL

 Mr. VITTER. Madam President, today, I recognize the Second 
Annual Louisiana Veterans Festival taking place on May 16, at the 
Northshore Harbor Center in Slidell, LA. The event is hosted by the 
East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity, which constructs homes for low-
income families in Louisiana, including veterans. The event offers an 
opportunity for families of military personnel and members of the 
community to celebrate and thank veterans for their service to our 
Nation.
  Habitat for Humanity's efforts are incredibly important, especially 
for our veterans. When we send our American citizens to war, we make a 
promise to protect them and a commitment to support them when they 
return home. Habitat for Humanity's work ensures that many will have a 
home when they return.
  Throughout America's history, our military has bravely defended our 
Nation--especially our beliefs and values--from the threat of tyranny 
and oppression. Our service men and women have defended us in all 
corners of the Earth, and they continue to defend us today. It is 
through the service and devotion of the military members and our 
veterans that our Nation has remained the strong America we know today. 
For their sacrifices, we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be 
repaid.
  Through my work in the United States Congress, I have had the 
privilege of meeting with veterans throughout the State of Louisiana, 
from World War II veterans to recent veterans from Operation Enduring 
Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. I am humbled by the stories of 
heroism and selflessness. May we never forget those who have made the 
ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms.
  It is our responsibility to remember their courage, not only in 
ceremonies such as the Veterans Festival in Slidell, but also every 
day. Louisiana is blessed to have such a successful organization with 
so many dedicated workers and volunteers building a better future for 
our veterans and their families. We honor those who have served for us 
and have given so much, and I am pleased to recognize the Second Annual 
Louisiana Veterans Festival and the East St. Tammany Habitat for 
Humanity for its role in building homes for veterans.

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