[Deschler-Brown Precedents, Volume 17, Chapters 34 - 40]
[Ch. 36. Ceremonies and Awards]
[Â§19. Military Awards; Receptions for Generals and Astronauts]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[Page 232-256]
 
                               CHAPTER 36
 
                         Ceremonies and Awards
 
Sec. 19. Military Awards; Receptions for Generals and Astronauts

    The House has honored its heroes in a variety of ways. The House 
has conducted ceremonies for Congressional Medal of Honor 
recipients(1) and has honored its astronauts with receptions 
in the Caucus Room(2) and in the House 
Chamber.(3) Various generals have been received by the House 
and allowed to address the Chamber.(4) The House has 
conferred honorary veteran status to an actor who inspired 
troops(5) and has commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 
Department of Veterans' Affairs.(6) The House also has 
conducted several war-related observances,(7) including 
authorizing the use of the Capitol Rotunda for a ceremony honoring 
military heroism(8) and the lowering of the flag for missing 
POWs and MIAs.(9)
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 1. See Sec. 19.1, infra.
 2. See Sec. 19.3, infra.
 3. See Sec. 19.2, infra.
 4. See Sec. Sec. 19.4-19.7, infra. See also 5 Hinds' Precedents 
        Sec. Sec. 7076-7088 for receptions of eminent soldiers.
 5. See Sec. 19.8, infra.
 6. See Sec. 19.9, infra.
 7. See Sec. Sec. 19.10-19.17, infra.
 8. See Sec. 19.12, infra.
 9. See Sec. 19.13, infra.                          -------------------
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Medal of Honor

Sec. 19.1 Proceedings had at a joint meeting in the House Chamber when 
    the President decorated Sgt. Jake W. Lindsey, United States Army, 
    with the Congressional Medal of Honor.

    The Medal of Honor is presented by the President in the name of 
Congress and is the highest military honor that can be bestowed upon an 
individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. The 
joint resolution authorizing the presentation of ``medals of honor'' 
for Army personnel was signed by President Lincoln on July 14, 
1862.(1)
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 1. Senate joint resolution of July 12, 1862, 12 Stat. 623, 624. That 
        joint resolution reads, in part, that ``the President of the 
        United States be, and he is hereby, authorized to cause two 
        thousand ``medals of honor'' to be prepared with suitable 
        emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, 
        in the name of the Congress, to such non-commissioned officers 
        and privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their 
        gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities, during 
        the present insurrection.'' The correct title of the award is 
        the Medal of Honor. Because the U.S. President presents the 
        medal in the name of the United States Congress, it is 
        sometimes called the Congressional Medal of Honor. The latter 
        title is typically connected only with the Congressional Medal 
        of Honor Society, the organization that represents those who 
        have earned the medal.

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[[Page 233]]

    On May 18, 1945,(2) Mr. Joseph W. Martin, Jr., of 
Massachusetts, addressed the House for one minute by unanimous consent 
to announce a forthcoming ceremony honoring a Congressional Medal of 
Honor recipient and to obtain unanimous consent for a recess for a 
joint meeting.
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 2. 91 Cong. Rec. 4755, 4756, 79th Cong. 1st Sess.
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                             program for next week

        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent to address the House for 1 minute.
        The SPEAKER.(3) Is there objection to the request of 
    the gentleman from Massachusetts?
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 3. Sam Rayburn (TX).
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        There was no objection.
        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I take this time to 
    inquire of the majority leader what the program for next week will 
    be.
        Mr. [John W.] McCORMACK [of Massachusetts]. On Monday it is the 
    intention to hold a joint meeting of the Congress, which meeting 
    will probably be held in the House at 1 o'clock, in connection with 
    conferring the Congressional Medal on the one-hundredth member of 
    our armed forces to receive it. In the event of such a joint 
    meeting, the President of the United States will be present.
        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. It is generally the custom, when 
    we confer Congressional Medals, to have it done by the President in 
    an exercise like this?
        Mr. McCORMACK. No; I do not think that it is the custom.
        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. I do not know how these medals 
    have been awarded in the past. Has it ever been customary for the 
    President to be here and do it?
        Mr. McCORMACK. No. That is my understanding. This is based on 
    the fact that this is the one-hundredth member of our armed forces 
    who has received it.
        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. The one-hundredth in this 
    particular war?
        Mr. McCORMACK. Yes. It is felt that the occasion would justify 
    a joint meeting for that purpose. Of course, the honor that will be 
    conferred upon this man directly will inure indirectly to every man 
    who has received the Congressional Medal of Honor.
        Mr. MARTIN of Massachusetts. It will probably be difficult to 
    make the other 99 think so.
        Mr. McCORMACK. That is probably so, but I am sure they will 
    appreciate the situation.

    In the Senate on May 21, 1945,(4) the date set for the 
meeting, the Senate Majority Leader

[[Page 234]]

announced the informal invitation of the House for the Senate to attend 
the ceremony:
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 4. 91 Cong. Rec. 4787, 79th Cong. 1st Sess.
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              joint meeting of the two houses -- presentation of 
                 congressional medal of honor by the president

        Mr. [Alben W.] BARKLEY [of Kentucky]. Mr. President, at 1 
    o'clock the President of the United States will be in the Hall of 
    the House of Representatives, where he is to present the 
    Congressional Medal of Honor to the one hundredth American 
    infantryman to receive it. The Senate has been invited informally 
    by the House of Representatives to attend the ceremony. My 
    information is that it will be very brief.
        Following the proceedings in the House, the Senate will return 
    to its Chamber. . . .
        Following the ceremony in the House of Representatives Chamber, 
    I hope the Members of the Senate will not return to the Senate 
    until the President pro tempore has been able to leave the rostrum 
    in the Hall of the House and head the procession back to this 
    Chamber, and that Senators will march back in a body, rather than 
    straggle along, as has sometimes occurred in the past. It is more 
    in keeping with the dignity of the Senate, as I am sure all of us 
    realize, to have Senators return in a body in an orderly way.
        It is desired that we depart from this Chamber at a quarter to 
    one, in order to arrive at the Hall of the House of Representatives 
    at the proper time.

    In the House on that date,(5) unanimous consent was 
granted that it be in order for the Speaker to declare a recess subject 
to the call of the Chair. The proceedings were as follows:
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 5. Id. at pp. 4816, 4817.
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                                     recess

        Mr. McCORMACK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that it be 
    in order for the Speaker to declare a recess at any time during the 
    day, subject to the call of the Chair.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from Massachusetts?
        There was no objection.
        The SPEAKER. The Chair declares the House in recess until 2 
    o'clock this afternoon.
        Accordingly (at 12 o'clock and 8 minutes p. m.) the House stood 
    in recess until 2 o'clock.

                     joint session of the house and senate

        At 12 o'clock and 52 minutes p.m., the Doorkeeper announced the 
    President pro tempore and the Members of the United States Senate.
        The Senate, preceded by the President pro tempore and its 
    Secretary and Sergeant at Arms, entered the Hall of the House.
        The President pro tempore of the Senate(6) took the 
    chair at the right of the Speaker, and the Members of the Senate 
    took the seats reserved for them.
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 6. Kenneth McKeller (TN).
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        The SPEAKER. On the part of the House, the Chair appoints the 
    following members of the committee to escort the President of the 
    United States into the Chamber: The gentleman from Massachusetts 
    [Mr.

[[Page 235]]

    McCormack]; the gentleman from Mississippi [Mr. Colmer], and the 
    gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Martin].
        The PRESIDENT pro tempore of the Senate.(7) On the 
    part of the Senate, the Chair appoints as members of the committee 
    to escort the President of the United States into the Chamber: The 
    Senator from Kentucky [Mr. Barkley], the Senator from Maine [Mr. 
    White], and the Senator from Utah [Mr. Thomas].
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 7. Parliamentarian's Note: The formation at the Clerk's desk in front 
        of the Speaker, facing Members of the House: the Chief of 
        Staff, Sgt. Lindsey, the President, and a Presidential aide. 
        After the decoration, the Chief of Staff, Sgt. Lindsey, and the 
        President's aide left the rostrum and took seats provided for 
        them. The President then addressed the joint meeting.
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        At 12 o'clock and 57 minutes p. m., the Doorkeeper announced 
    the Cabinet of the President of the United States.
        At 1 o'clock and 1 minute p. m., the Doorkeeper announced the 
    Chief of Staff, Gen. George C. Marshall, and Technical Sgt. Jake 
    William Lindsey, of Lucedale, Miss.
        General Marshall and Sergeant Lindsey were escorted to the 
    Clerk's desk.
        At 1 o'clock and 3 minutes p. m., the Doorkeeper announced the 
    President of the United States.
        The President of the United States, escorted by the committee 
    of Senators and Representatives, entered the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives and stood at the Clerk's desk.
        The SPEAKER. The Chair presents the Chief of Staff, the General 
    of the Armies, George C. Marshall.
        General Marshall. I will read the citation:

            Technical Sgt. Jake W. Lindsey, Sixteenth Infantry, led a 
        platoon reduced to 6 of its original strength of 40 in the 
        attack on an enemy position near Hamich, Germany, on the 16th 
        of November, 1944. . . .
            In his fearlessness, inspiring courage, and superb 
        leadership, Sergeant Lindsey carried on a brilliant defense of 
        his platoon's hardwon ground, securing the position and 
        inflicting heavy casualties on the numerically superior enemy.

        [Applause, the Members standing during reading of citation.]
        Thereupon the President of the United States bestowed the 
    Congressional Medal of Honor on Technical Sgt. Jake William 
    Lindsey.
        The PRESIDENT of the United States. Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, 
    Members of the Congress, we are assembled here today to confer the 
    Nation's highest decoration on a young American soldier. It so 
    happens that Technical Sgt. Jake W. Lindsey, of Lucedale, Miss., is 
    the one hundredth infantryman to receive the Medal of Honor in this 
    war for bravery above and beyond the call of duty. Through him we 
    pay a grateful Nation's tribute to the courage of all our fighting 
    men. . . .
        It is with gratitude and pride that as President of the United 
    States, and in the name of Congress, I have presented the Medal of 
    Honor to Technical Sgt. Jake W. Lindsey. [Applause.]
        At 1 o'clock and 13 minutes p. m., the President retired from 
    the Hall of the House of Representatives.

[[Page 236]]

        At 1 o'clock and 14 minutes p. m., the members of the 
    President's Cabinet retired from the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives.
        At 1 o'clock and 14 \1/2\ minutes p. m., the Chief of Staff, 
    Gen. George C. Marshall, and Technical Sgt. Jake William Lindsey 
    retired from the Hall of the House of Representatives.
        At 1 o'clock and 15 minutes p. m., the Speaker announced that 
    the joint session was dissolved.
        Thereupon, the President pro tempore of the Senate and the 
    Members of the Senate returned to their Chamber.

                                  after recess

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the 
    Speaker at 2 o'clock p. m.
        The SPEAKER. Without objection, the proceedings had during the 
    recess will be printed in the Record, and the President's message 
    will be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and ordered 
    printed.
        There was no objection.

Receptions for Astronauts

Sec. 19.2 The House stood in recess to receive the Gemini IV astronauts 
    in the House Chamber.

     On June 16, 1965,(1) the following occurred:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 111 Cong. Rec. 13774, 89th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Carl] ALBERT [of Oklahoma]. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent that it may be in order at any time on Thursday for the 
    Speaker to declare a recess for the purpose of receiving the Gemini 
    4 astronauts, Maj. James A. DeWitt, U.S. Air Force, and Maj. Edward 
    H. White, U.S. Air Force.
        The SPEAKER.(2) Is there any objection to the 
    request of the gentleman from Oklahoma?
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 2. John W. McCormack (MA).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.

    On June 17, 1965,(3) Mr. Gerald R. Ford, of Michigan, 
asked for clarification as to procedure related to the reception for 
the Gemini IV astronauts:
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 3. 111 Cong. Rec. 13957, 89th Cong. 1st Sess. See also 111 Cong. Rec. 
        23648, 23649, 89th Cong. 1st Sess., Sept. 14, 1965, when the 
        House stood in recess to receive the Gemini 5 astronauts; and 
        117 Cong. Rec. 4580, 4581, 92d Cong. 1st Sess., Mar. 2, 1971, 
        for a reception for the Apollo 14 astronauts.
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        Mr. GERALD R. FORD. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman from 
    Oklahoma tell the House what the plans are for today, as far as 
    taking a recess and reconvening are concerned?
        Mr. [Carl] ALBERT [of Oklahoma]. Yes; we hope to dispose of the 
    conference report on the excise bill and another bill which the 
    gentleman from Arkansas advised yesterday would be called up today 
    under a unanimous consent request. The House will recess shortly 
    thereafter. We expect the astronauts here on the floor about 2:30 
    this afternoon. . . .                          -------------------

                    RECEPTION OF THE ``GEMINI 4'' ASTRONAUTS

        At 2:57 o'clock p.m., the Doorkeeper of the House of 
    Representatives, the

[[Page 237]]

    Honorable William M. Miller, escorted into the House Chamber the 
    families of the Gemini 4 astronauts.
        At 2:58 o'clock p.m., the Speaker of the House of 
    Representatives called the membership to order.
        The Gemini 4 astronauts, Maj. James A. McDivitt and Maj. Edward 
    H. White, entered the Hall of the House of Representatives at 3 
    o'clock p.m., preceded by Sergeant at Arms Zeake W. Johnson, Jr., 
    and escorted to the Speaker's rostrum by the Honorable William M. 
    Miller, Doorkeeper, Vice President Humprey, the Honorable Carl 
    Albert, the Honorable Gerald R. Ford, the Honorable Hale Boggs, the 
    Honorable Leslie C. Arends, the Honorable George P. Miller, and the 
    Honorable James G. Fulton.
        [Applause, Members rising.]
        Astronaut White was seated to the left of the Speaker and 
    Astronaut McDivitt to the right of the Speaker.
        [Applause, Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. Members of the House, we have had many 
    distinguished visitors to this historic Chamber but there are no 
    two gentleman who are more distinguished or more welcome here than 
    the two gentlemen whom we have with us today.
        It is a personal pleasure and a great honor for me to present 
    to you two brave Americans who have in a most notable manner added 
    glory and prestige to explorations in space, and to our country's 
    history, the Gemini 4 astronauts, Maj. -- lieutenant colonel 
    nominee -- James A. McDivitt, and Maj. -- lieutenant colonel 
    nominee -- Edward H. White.
        [Applause, Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. It is again my personal pleasure and great honor 
    to present for remarks these two distinguished gentlemen. The first 
    one whom I shall present to my colleagues in the House, taking them 
    in order of their names in relation to the alphabet, is Maj. -- 
    lieutenant colonel nominee -- James A. McDivitt.
        [Applause, Members rising.]
        Major McDIVITT. Mr. Speaker, and Members of Congress, I am 
    absolutely overwhelmed at being here today. . . .
        The SPEAKER. It is also my personal pleasure and great honor to 
    present to you the other distinguished guest of the House -- and we 
    welcome you both with hospitality, warmth, and friendship -- the 
    distinguished American, Maj. -- lieutenant colonel nominee -- 
    Edward H. White.
        [Applause, Members and guests rising.]
        Maj. EDWARD H. WHITE. Mr. Speaker, leaders of the United States 
    of America, friends, I knew that when I got up here I would have 
    the feeling that I could not even see over this rostrum, I feel so 
    humble and so small today. . . .
        [Applause, Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. The Sergeant at Arms will escort the distinguished 
    visitors to the well of the House so that the Members of the House 
    may have an opportunity of meeting and shaking hands with them.
        The Doorkeeper and the Sergeant at Arms escorted the two 
    astronauts to the well of the House, and their wives joined them.
        The Members of the House greeted the astronauts and their 
    wives.
        The SPEAKER. The committee of escort will conduct the 
    distinguished visitors from the Chamber.

[[Page 238]]

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the 
    Speaker at 3 o'clock and 40 minutes p.m.
        Mr. ALBERT. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the 
    proceedings had during the recess of the House may be printed in 
    the Record.
        The SPEAKER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
        There was no objection.

Sec. 19.3 A reception in the Caucus Room for astronauts Grissom and 
    Young was announced to the House by the Chairman of the Committee 
    on Science and Astronautics.(1)
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 1. Parliamentarian's Note: Astronauts Virgil I. Grissom and John W. 
        Young were the first U.S. space team to orbit the earth in a 
        two-man capsule. The flight took place on Tuesday, Mar. 22, 
        1965. The astronauts were honored by the President at a White 
        House ceremony on Mar. 26, 1965. They attended a lunch on the 
        Senate side of the Capitol and then returned for the reception 
        on the House side at 5 o'clock p.m.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    On Mar. 25, 1965,(2) George P. Miller, of California, 
Chairman of the Committee on Science and Astronautics, announced a 
forthcoming reception:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. 111 Cong. Rec. 5957, 5958, 89th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. MILLER. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Speaker, I wish to 
    extend to all Members an invitation to attend a reception in the 
    caucus room of the Cannon Office Building tomorrow afternoon at 5 
    o'clock, for the two astronauts who have just so successfully flown 
    through outer space.
        The two astronauts, Virgil Grissom and John Young, will be 
    there.
        Unfortunately, we must limit the invitation to Members of the 
    Congress and their immediate families. Consequently, we cannot 
    allow the members of the congressional staffs to attend because 
    there are so many people who want to see the astronauts that I am 
    afraid Members of Congress wouldn't have that opportunity.
        I urge you to be present. I know there will be business on the 
    floor but we are going to try to arrange it so that we can get off 
    the floor in time to see these men who have made such a great 
    contribution to space science and to the honor and dignity of our 
    country.

    On Mar. 26, 1965,(3) Speaker John W. McCormack, of 
Massachusetts, during debate in the Committee of the Whole, informed 
the House of plans to recess briefly so that Members might meet the 
astronauts in the Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office 
Building.(4)
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 3. Id. at pp. 6109, 6112.
 4. Rule IV clause 1, House Rules and Manual, Sec. 677 (2007), states: 
        ``The Hall of the House shall be used only for the legislative 
        business of the House and for the caucus and conference 
        meetings of its Members, except when the House agrees to take 
        part in any ceremonies to be observed therein. The Speaker may 
        not entertain a motion for the suspension of this clause.''
            As to the use of House facilities generally, see Ch. 4, 
        supra.

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[[Page 239]]

        Mr. GERALD R. FORD [of Michigan]. Mr. Chairman, a parliamentary 
    inquiry.
        The CHAIRMAN.(5) The gentleman will state his 
    parliamentary inquiry.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 5. Richard Bolling (MO).
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        Mr. GERALD R. FORD. I note that the Speaker is in the well of 
    the House. Would he give us the benefit of his information 
    concerning plans for the Members of the House to visit with the 
    astronauts?
        Mr. McCORMACK. I am very glad the gentleman propounded his 
    question in the parliamentary inquiry.
        It is my hope that the Committee of the Whole will rise within 
    the next 15 or 20 minutes. Then, in the House, a unanimous-consent 
    request will be made to authorize the Speaker to declare a recess 
    in order that the Members and their dear ones can attend the 
    reception for the two astronauts. After that we will come back, and 
    the House will go back into the Committee of the Whole for the 
    further consideration of this bill. . . .
        Mr. [Adam C.] POWELL [of New York]. Mr. Chairman, I move that 
    the Committee do now rise.
        The motion was agreed to. . . 
    .                          -------------------

                      SPEAKER EMPOWERED TO DECLARE RECESS

        Mr. [Carl] ALBERT [of Oklahoma]. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent that the Speaker may declare a recess subject to the call 
    of the Chair.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from Oklahoma?
        There was no 
    objection.                          -------------------

                                     RECESS

        The SPEAKER. The House will stand in recess subject to the call 
    of the Chair. The bells will be rung 15 minutes before reconvening.
        Accordingly (at 4 o'clock and 45 minutes p.m.), the House stood 
    in recess subject to the call of the 
    Chair.                          -------------------

                                  AFTER RECESS

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the 
    Speaker at 6 o'clock and 9 minutes p.m.

Receptions for Generals

Sec. 19.4 Proceedings had during recess of the House for a House 
    ceremony to welcome General H. Norman Schwarzkopf.

    On May 7, 1991,(1) the following occurred:
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 1. 137 Cong. Rec. 9955, 102d Cong. 1st. Sess.
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        Mrs. (Patricia) SCHROEDER [of Colorado]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that it may be in order on Wednesday May 8, for 
    the Speaker to declare a recess, subject to the call of the Chair, 
    for the purpose of welcoming Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf,

[[Page 240]]

    commander in chief, U.S. General Command.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Mazzoli).(2) Is there 
    objection to the request of the gentlewoman from Colorado?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Romano Mazzoli (KY).
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        There was no objection.

    On May 8, 1991,(3) the Speaker(4) presided 
over a reception in the House Chamber. The proceedings were as follows:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. 137 Cong. Rec. 10243, 10244, 102d Cong. 1st Sess.
 4. Thomas S. Foley (WA).
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            RECEPTION OF GEN. H. NORMAN SCHWARZKOPF BY THE HOUSE OF 
                                REPRESENTATIVES

        The SPEAKER. The Chair appoints the following Members to 
    welcome Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf into the Chamber:
        The gentleman from Missouri, Mr. Gephardt; the gentleman from 
    Pennsylvania, Mr. Gray; the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. Bonior, 
    the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. Hoyer; the gentleman from 
    Illinois, Mr. Michel; the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Gingrich; the 
    gentleman from California, Mr. Lewis; the gentleman from Oklahoma, 
    Mr. Edwards; the gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Whitten; the 
    gentleman from Pennsylvania, Mr. McDade; the gentleman from 
    Florida, Mr. Fascell; the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. Broomfield; 
    the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Hamilton; the gentleman from New 
    York, Mr. Solarz; the gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Montgomery; 
    the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Stump; the gentleman from 
    Wisconsin, Mr. Aspin; the gentleman from Alabama, Mr. Dickinson; 
    the gentleman from Pennsylvania, Mr. Murtha; the gentleman from 
    Florida, Mr. Young; the gentleman from Florida, Mr. Gibbons; and 
    the gentleman from California, Mr. Fazio.
        ``My Country'' was presented by the U.S. Army band, led by Co. 
    L. Bryan Shelburne, Jr.
        The Doorkeeper, the Honorable James T. Molloy, announced Gen. 
    H. Norman Schwarzkopf, who entered the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives accompanied by the escort committee, and was seated 
    at the desk in front of the Speaker's rostrum.
        The SPEAKER. The Chair wants to welcome everyone in the Chamber 
    on this special occasion.
        We are honored to have with us today representatives from the 
    armed services who distinguished themselves in service in the 
    Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm.
        Would they please rise so they may be recognized.
        (Applause, the Members rising.)
        The SPEAKER. We are also very honored to have with us in the 
    President's gallery, the wife of General Schwarzkopf, Brenda 
    Schwarzkopf.
        (Applause, the Members rising.)
        The SPEAKER. We are pleased to welcome Senator Mitchell, 
    majority leader of the U.S. Senate, and Members of the U.S. Senate.
        We are also pleased to welcome to the Chamber His Excellency 
    Shaikh Saud Nasir Al-Sabah, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait.
        (Applause.)
        The SPEAKER. Members of the Congress, it is my great privilege 
    and I

[[Page 241]]

    deem it a high honor and personal pleasure to present to you a man 
    who has made every American proud of our great country, Gen. H. 
    Norman Schwarzkopf, commander in chief of the U.S. Central Command 
    and one of the great heroes of Operation Desert Storm.
        (Applause, the Members rising.)
        General SCHWARZKOPF. Mr. Speaker, Members of Congress and 
    distinguished guests, it is a great day to be a soldier, and it is 
    a great day to be an American.
        I want to thank you for the singular distinction of being 
    allowed to speak to the special session of the Congress of the 
    United States of America. . . .
        (Applause, the Members rising.)
        The U.S. Army Band presented a medley of marches.
        Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, accompanied by the escort 
    committee, retired from the Chamber.
        The honored guests retired from the Chamber.
        At 11 o'clock and 58 minutes a.m., the reception honoring Gen. 
    H. Norman Schwarzkopf was concluded.
        The SPEAKER. The House will remain in recess until 12:15 
    p.m.                          -------------------

                                {time}  1215

                                  AFTER RECESS

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the 
    Speaker pro tempore [Mr. Hoyer] at 12 o'clock and 15 minutes p.m.

Sec. 19.5 Proceedings of a joint meeting to hear an address by General 
    William Westmoreland, Commander, U.S. Military Assistance Command, 
    Vietnam.

    On Apr. 28, 1967,(1) the Governors of the States were 
invited to attend the joint meeting to hear a report by the General. 
The proceedings were as follows:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 113 Cong. Rec. 11153-55, 90th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

          JOINT MEETING OF THE HOUSE AND SENATE TO HEAR AN ADDRESS BY 
            GEN. WILLIAM C. WESTMORELAND, COMMANDER, U.S. MILITARY 
                          ASSISTANCE COMMAND, VIETNAM

        The SPEAKER of the House presided.
        The Doorkeeper, Hon. William M. Miller, announced the Vice 
    President and Members of the U.S. Senate, who entered the Hall of 
    the House of Representatives, the Vice President taking the chair 
    at the right of the Speaker, and the Members of the Senate the 
    seats reserved for them.
        The SPEAKER.(2) The Chair appoints as members of the 
    committee on the part of the House to escort our distinguished 
    visitor into the Chamber the gentleman from Oklahoma, Mr. Albert; 
    the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Boggs; the gentleman from New 
    York, Mr. Celler; the gentleman from South Carolina, Mr. Rivers; 
    the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. Gerald R. Ford; the gentleman from 
    Illinois, Mr. Arends; and the gentleman from South Carolina, Mr. 
    Watson.
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 2. John W. McCormack (MA).
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        The VICE PRESIDENT.(3) The Chair appoints as members 
    of the committee

[[Page 242]]

    of escort on the part of the Senate the Senator from Louisiana, Mr. 
    Long; the Senator from West Virginia, Mr. Byrd; the Senator from 
    Georgia, Mr. Russell; the Senator from South Carolina, Mr. 
    Hollings; the Senator from California Mr. Kuchel; the Senator from 
    Iowa, Mr. Hickenlooper; the Senator from North Dakota, Mr. Young; 
    the Senator from Maine, Mrs. Smith; and the Senator from South 
    Carolina, Mr. Thurmond.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. Hubert H. Humphrey (MN).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Doorkeeper announced the Governors of the several States of 
    the Union.
        The Governors of the several States of the Union entered the 
    Hall of the House of Representatives and took the seats reserved 
    for them.
        The Doorkeeper announced the Ambassadors, Ministers, and 
    Charges d'Affaires of foreign governments.
        The Ambassadors, Ministers and Charges d'Affaires of foreign 
    governments entered the Hall of the House of Representatives and 
    took the seats reserved for them.
        The Doorkeeper announced the Cabinet of the President of the 
    United States.
        The members of the Cabinet of the President of the United 
    States entered the Hall of the House of Representatives and took 
    the seats reserved for them in front of the Speaker's rostrum.
        At 12 o'clock and 31 minutes p.m., the Doorkeeper announced 
    Gen. William C. Westmoreland, Commander, the U.S. Military 
    Assistance Command, Vietnam.
        Gen. William C. Westmoreland, escorted by the committee of 
    Senators and Representatives, entered the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives, and stood at the Clerk's desk.
        [Applause, the Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. Members of the Congress, I have the great pleasure 
    and high privilege of presenting to you Gen. William C. 
    Westmoreland, U.S. Army, Commander, the U.S. Military Assistance 
    Command, Vietnam.

        address by gen. william c. westmoreland, u.s. army, commander, 
                   u.s. military assistance command, vietnam

        General WESTMORELAND. Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, Members of 
    Congress:
        I am deeply honored to address the Congress of the United 
    States. I stand in the shadow of military men who have been here 
    before me, but none of them could have more pride than is mine in 
    representing the gallant American fighting men in Vietnam today. . 
    . .
        [Applause, the Members rising.]
        At 12 o'clock and 59 minutes p.m., General Westmoreland, 
    accompanied by the escort committee, retired from the Hall of the 
    House of Representatives. . . .
        The SPEAKER. The purposes of the joint meeting having been 
    completed, the Chair declares the joint meeting of the two Houses 
    now dissolved.
        Accordingly, at 1 o'clock and 4 minutes p.m., the joint meeting 
    of the two Houses was dissolved.
        The Members of the Senate retired to their 
    Chamber.                          -------------------

                                  AFTER RECESS

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the 
    Speaker at 1 o'clock and 5 minutes p.m.

[[Page 243]]

                                   -------------------PROCEEDINGS HAD 
                          DURING RECESS TO BE PRINTED

        Mr. [Carl] ALBERT [of Oklahoma]. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent that the proceedings had during the recess be printed in 
    the Record.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from Oklahoma?
        There was no objection.

Sec. 19.6 The House held a Joint Meeting in the House Chamber to hear 
    an address by General Matthew B. Ridgway.

    On May 22, 1952,(1) the Speaker(2) presided 
over a joint meeting in the House Chamber to receive General Ridgway, 
who had just been relieved of command of the troops in Japan and Korea 
and was on his way to relieve General Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of 
the Allied Powers in Europe:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 98 Cong. Rec. 5812-15, 82d Cong. 2d. Sess.
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

          JOINT MEETING OF THE HOUSE AND SENATE TO HEAR AN ADDRESS BY 
                            GEN. MATTHEW B. RIDGWAY

        The SPEAKER of the House of Representatives presided.
        At 12 o'clock and 20 minutes p. m. the Members were called to 
    order by the Speaker.
        The Doorkeeper announced the Vice President and the Members of 
    the United States Senate.
        The Senate, preceded by the Vice President and its Secretary 
    and Sergeant at Arms, entered the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives.
        The VICE PRESIDENT took the chair at the right of the Speaker 
    and the Members of the Senate took the seats reserved for them.
        The SPEAKER. On the part of the House the Chair appoints as 
    members of the committee to escort our distinguished visitor into 
    the Chamber, the gentleman from Massachusetts, Mr. McCormack; the 
    gentleman from Massachusetts, Mr. Martin; the gentleman from 
    Louisiana, Mr. Brooks; and the gentleman from Missouri, Mr. Short.
        The VICE PRESIDENT.(3) On the part of the Senate the 
    Chair appoints as members of the committee of escort the Senator 
    from Arizona, Mr. McFarland; the Senator from Texas, Mr. Connally, 
    the Senator from Texas, Mr. Johnson; the Senator from New 
    Hampshire, Mr. Bridges; and the Senator from New Jersey, Mr. Smith.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. Alben W. Barkley (KY).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Doorkeeper announced the Ambassadors, Ministers and Charges 
    d'Affaires of foreign governments who entered the Hall of the House 
    of Representatives and took the seats reserved for them.
        The Doorkeeper announced the members of the President's 
    Cabinet, who entered the Hall of the House of Representatives and 
    took the seats reserved for them.
        At 12 o'clock and 30 minutes p. m. the Doorkeeper announced 
    General Matthew B. Ridgway.
        General Ridgway, escorted the committee of Senators and 
    Representatives, entered the Hall of the House of

[[Page 244]]

    Representatives and stood at the Clerk's desk. [Applause, the 
    Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. Members of Congress, I have the great pleasure and 
    the high privilege of presenting to you Gen. Matthew B. Ridgway. 
    [Applause, the Members 
    rising.]                          -------------------

                       ADDRESS OF GEN. MATTHEW B. RIDGWAY

        General RIDGWAY. Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, distinguished 
    Members of the Congress, to be here, before the Members of the 
    Congress of my country, is the greatest honor. To the Senate and 
    the House of Representatives from whence came the invitation, and 
    to the President who gave his sanction, I express my profound and 
    respectful thanks. . . .
        At 12 o'clock and 55 minutes p. m., General Ridgway, 
    accompanied by the escort committee, retired from the Chamber.
        The Doorkeeper escorted the invited guests from the Chamber in 
    the following order:
        The Ambassadors, Ministers, and Charges d'Affaires of foreign 
    governments.
        The members of the President's 
    Cabinet.                          -------------------

                            JOINT MEETING DISSOLVED

        The SPEAKER. The Chair declares the joint meeting of the two 
    Houses now dissolved.
        Thereupon (at 12 o'clock and 58 minutes p. m.) the joint 
    meeting of the two Houses of Congress was dissolved.
        The Members of the Senate retired to their 
    Chamber.                          -------------------

                                  AFTER RECESS

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order at 
    1:30 o'clock p. m.                          -------------------

                   PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS DURING THE RECESS

        Mr. [Jere] COOPER [of Tennessee]. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent that the proceedings had during the recess today be 
    included in the Record.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from Tennessee?
        There was no objection.

Sec. 19.7 The House held a Joint Meeting in the House Chamber to 
    receive General of the Army Douglas MacArthur.

    On Apr. 19, 1951,(1) the following proceedings occurred:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 97 Cong. Rec. 4123-25, 82d Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

         joint meeting in house chamber to receive general of the army 
                               douglas macarthur

        The Speaker of the House of Representatives presided.
        At 12:20 p.m., the Doorkeeper announced the Vice President and 
    the Members of the United States Senate.
        The Senate, preceded by the Vice President and its Secretary 
    and Sergeant at Arms, entered the Hall of the House of 
    Representatives.

[[Page 245]]

        The Vice President took the chair at the right of the Speaker 
    and the Members of the Senate took the seats reserved for them.
        The SPEAKER.(2) The Chair appoints as members of the 
    committee on the part of the House to escort our distinguished 
    visitor into the Chamber the gentleman from Massachusetts, Mr. 
    McCormack; the gentleman from Massachusetts, Mr. Martin; the 
    gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Vinson; the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. 
    Halleck; and the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Brooks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The VICE PRESIDENT.(3) On the part of the Senate the 
    Chair appoints as members of the committee of escort the junior 
    Senator from Arizona, Mr. McFarland; the senior Senator from Texas, 
    Mr. Connally; the junior Senator from Georgia, Mr. Russell; the 
    junior Senator from Nebraska, Mr. Wherry; the senior Senator from 
    New Hampshire, Mr. Bridges; and the senior Senator from Wisconsin, 
    Mr. Wiley.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. Alben W. Barkley (KY).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Doorkeeper announced General of the Army Douglas MacArthur.
        General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, escorted by the 
    committee of Senators and Representatives, entered the Hall of the 
    House of Representatives and stood at the Clerk's desk. [Applause, 
    the Members rising.]
        The SPEAKER. Members of the Congress, it is my great pleasure 
    and a distinct privilege to present to you General of the Army 
    Douglas MacArthur. [Applause, the Members rising.]

                address of general of the army douglas macarthur

        General MacARTHUR. Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, distinguished 
    Members of the Congress, I stand on this rostrum with a sense of 
    deep humility and great pride; humility in the wake of those great 
    American architects of our history who have stood here before me; 
    pride in the reflection that this forum of legislative debate 
    represents human liberty in the purest form yet devised. 
    [Applause.] Here are centered the hopes, and aspirations, and faith 
    of the entire human race. . . .
        I am closing my 52 years of military service [Applause.] . . .

                            joint meeting dissolved

        The SPEAKER. The joint meeting of the two Houses is now 
    dissolved.
        Thereupon (at 1 o'clock and 15 minutes p. m.) the joint meeting 
    of the two Houses was dissolved.

                                  after recess

        The recess having expired (at 1 o'clock and 15 minutes p. m.), 
    the House was called to order by the Speaker.
        Mr. [John W.] McCORMACK [of Massachusetts]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the proceedings had during the recess be 
    printed in the Record.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from Massachusetts?
        There was no objection.

Conferral of Honorary Veteran Status

Sec. 19.8 The House by unanimous consent discharged the

[[Page 246]]

    Committee on House Oversight from further consideration of, and 
    adopted, a Senate concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the 
    Capitol Rotunda for a congressional ceremony to honor Leslie Townes 
    (Bob) Hope by conferring upon him the status of honorary veteran of 
    the Armed Forces of the United States.

    On Oct. 23, 1997,(1) the following proceedings took 
place:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 143 Cong. Rec. 22806, 22807, 105th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Robert W.] NEY [of Ohio]. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous 
    consent that the Committee on House Oversight be discharged from 
    further consideration of the Senate concurrent resolution (S. Con. 
    Res. 56) authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for a 
    ceremony honoring Leslie Townes (Bob) Hope by conferring upon him 
    the status of an honorary veteran of the Armed Forces of the United 
    States, and ask for its immediate consideration.
        The Clerk read the title of the Senate concurrent resolution. . 
    . . 
        The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. Morella).(2) Is there 
    objection to the request of the gentleman from Ohio?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Constance A. Morella (MD).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.
        The Clerk read the Senate concurrent resolution, as follows:

                                S. Con. Res. 56

        Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives 
    concurring), That the rotunda of the Capitol is authorized to be 
    used on October 29, 1997, for a ceremony to honor Leslie Townes 
    (Bob) Hope for conferring upon him the status of an honorary 
    veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States. Physical 
    preparations for the conduct of the ceremony shall be carried out 
    in accordance with such conditions as may be prescribed by the 
    Architect of the Capitol.
        The Senate concurrent resolution was concurred in.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Commemoration of 75th Anniversary of the Department of Veterans' 
    Affairs

Sec. 19.9 The House suspended the rules and adopted a concurrent 
    resolution authorizing the use of the Rotunda for a ceremony to 
    commemorate the 75th anniversary of (what is now) the Department of 
    Veterans Affairs.

    On July 10, 2006,(1) the following proceedings took 
place:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 152 Cong. Rec. 13793-95, 109th Cong. 2d. Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Vernon J.] EHLERS [of Michigan]. Madam Speaker, I move to 
    suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. 
    Res. 427) permitting the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for a 
    ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment 
    of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

[[Page 247]]

        The Clerk read as follows:

                                H. Con. Res. 427

            Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate 
        concurring), that the rotunda of the Capitol is authorized to 
        be used on July 19, 2006, for a ceremony to commemorate the 
        75th anniversary of the establishment of the Department of 
        Veterans Affairs. Physical preparations for the ceremony shall 
        be carried out in accordance with such conditions as the 
        Architect of the Capitol may prescribe.

        The SPEAKER pro tempore.(2) Pursuant to the rule, 
    the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Ehlers) and the gentleman from New 
    Jersey (Mr. Pallone) each will control 20 minutes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Judith Biggert (IL).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Michigan.
        Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
    consume.
        For three-quarters of a century, the Department of Veterans 
    Affairs has supported the distinguished men and women of our Armed 
    Forces through the many services they offer. Since its inception in 
    1930, the VA has worked tirelessly to enhance patient care and 
    veterans benefits, providing excellence in service to those who 
    serve our Nation proudly. . . .
        Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered 
    by the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Ehlers) that the House suspend 
    the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. 427.
        The question was taken; and (two-thirds having voted in favor 
    thereof) the rules were suspended and the concurrent resolution was 
    agreed to.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

War-Related Observances

Sec. 19.10 Proceedings had during a recess of the House for a joint 
    meeting to close the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of World 
    War II.

    On Sept. 29, 1995,(1) the following proceedings 
occurred:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 141 Cong. Rec. 26982, 104th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

          AUTHORIZING THE SPEAKER TO DECLARE RECESSES AT ANY TIME ON 
                          WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1995

        Mr. [Christopher] SHAYS [of Connecticut]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that it may be in order for the Speaker to 
    declare recesses at any time on Wednesday, October 11, 1995, for 
    the purpose of a joint meeting to commemorate the 50th anniversary 
    of World War II.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore.(2) Is there objection to 
    the request of the gentleman from Connecticut?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Terry Everett (AL).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.

    On Oct. 11, 1995,(3) the House stood in recess subject 
to the call of the Chair:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. 141 Cong. Rec. 27579-84, 104th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                     RECESS

        The SPEAKER.(4) Pursuant to the order of the House 
    of Friday, September 29, 1995, the House will stand

[[Page 248]]

    in recess subject to the call of the Chair.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 4. Newt Gingrich (GA).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Accordingly (at 8 o'clock and 3 minutes a.m.), the House stood 
    in recess subject to the call of the 
    Chair.                          -------------------

                                {time}  0900

        JOINT MEETING OF THE 104TH CONGRESS TO CLOSE THE COMMEMORATION 
                    OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF WORLD WAR II

        During the recess the following proceedings took place in honor 
    of the 50th anniversary of World War II, the Speaker of the House 
    presiding.
        The Assistant to the Sergeant at Arms, Kevin Brennan, announced 
    the Vice President of the United States and the Members of the U.S. 
    Senate, who entered the Hall of the House of Representatives, 
    taking the seats reserved for them.
        The SPEAKER. The joint meeting to close the commemoration of 
    the 50th anniversary of World War II will come to order.
        The Assistant to the Sergeant at Arms announced the Joint Armed 
    Forces Color Guard.
        The historical colors were carried into the Chamber; the flag 
    was carried into the Chamber by the color bearer and a guard from 
    each of the branches of the Armed Forces.
        The national anthem was presented by the U.S. Army Chorus.
        The color guard saluted the Speaker, faced about, and saluted 
    the House.
        The flag was posted, and the Members and guests were seated.
        The Chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, Rev. James 
    David Ford, D.D., delivered the . . . invocation[.] . . .
        The SPEAKER. It is most appropriate we hold this joint meeting 
    of Congress to thank and honor the World War II generation who 50 
    years ago fought the most destructive war in history and saved the 
    world for freedom. This morning we remember all who served our 
    Nation, but our focus is on the World War II veteran, their 
    families and those who served on the home front. . . .
        Mr. Vice President.
        Vice President GORE.(5) Mr. Speaker, Mr. Leader, 
    Members of Congress, members of the President's Cabinet, General 
    Shalikashvili and members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and all 
    members of the Armed Services who are gathered here and, most of 
    all, to our World War II veterans and to their families, on behalf 
    of the U.S. Senate, I, too, welcome you. . . .
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 5. Albert A. Gore, Jr. (TN).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The SPEAKER. Representative Henry J. Hyde enlisted in the U.S. 
    Navy on Veterans Day, November 11, 1942, and was commissioned an 
    ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserve in October 1944. He served in the 
    South Pacific, New Guinea, and the Philippines. He continued his 
    military career in the Naval Reserves until 1968, retiring with the 
    rank of commander. . . .
        The SPEAKER. The U.S. Army Chorus and the U.S. Coast Guard Band 
    will now present ``Songs of the GI.''
        The U.S. Army Chorus and the U.S. Coast Guard Band presented 
    ``Songs of the GI.'' [Applause.]
        The SPEAKER. Representative G.V. ``Sonny'' Montgomery is one of 
    the

[[Page 249]]

    veterans' best friends. He entered World War II as an enlisted 
    person, was awarded the Bronze Star for valor, earned three Battle 
    Stars and attained the rank of captain by the end of the war. He 
    was recently awarded the Department of Defense Medal for 
    Distinguished Public Service by Secretary Perry because of the 
    success of the Montgomery GI bill in recruiting, retention and 
    readjustment to civilian life.
        The Chair recognizes and wishes also to take a moment to 
    express his personal feelings that we will all miss you upon your 
    retirement next year and hopes that all will recognize the 
    Honorable Sonny Montgomery, representative from the state of 
    Mississippi and ranking minority member of the Committee on 
    Veterans' Affairs. . . .
        The SPEAKER. It is an honor for me to introduce our next 
    speaker. He is a distinguished World War II veteran who was awarded 
    the Medal of Honor for his uncommon valor, leadership and 
    inspiration during the bloody battle of Guam in July 1944.
        During that battle, Marine Capt. Louis H. Wilson commanded his 
    company through some of the Pacific war's most vicious combat. 
    During several continuous days of battle, he led his men, 
    spearheading attacks and repelling enemy counterattacks. . . .
        The SPEAKER. The Honorable Robert H. Michel, former Republican 
    leader of the House of Representatives, was elected to the 85th 
    Congress and for 36 years served the constituents of Peoria, IL, 
    with great distinction until his retirement at the end of the 103d 
    Congress.
        During World War II, he also served with great distinction. He 
    was a combat infantryman in England, France, Belgium, and Germany. 
    Having been wounded by machine gun fire, he was discharged as a 
    disabled veteran after being awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, 
    and four battle stars.
        At this time, the Honorable Robert H. Michel will lead the U.S. 
    Army Chorus in singing ``God Bless America.'' . . .
        The SPEAKER. The benediction will be given by the Reverend 
    Lloyd John Ogilvie, Chaplain of the U.S. Senate.
        The Chaplain of the Senate, the Reverend Lloyd John Ogilvie, 
    offered the . . . benediction[.] . . .
        The SPEAKER. Members and guests will stand for the retirement 
    of the colors.
        The colors were retired from the Chamber.
        The SPEAKER. At this time, the Members of the Senate will 
    retire.
        The Members of the Senate retired from the Chamber.
        The SPEAKER. The purpose for the joint meeting having been 
    fulfilled, the joint meeting is concluded. The House will continue 
    in recess until approximately 11 a.m.
        The honored guests retired from the Chamber, at 10 o'clock and 
    16 minutes a.m. The proceedings to close the Commemoration of the 
    50th Anniversary of World War II were 
    concluded.                          -------------------

                                {time}  1101

                                  AFTER RECESS

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the

[[Page 250]]

    Speaker pro tempore [Mr. Shays] at 11 
    a.m.                          -------------------

                   PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS HAD DURING RECESS

        Mr. [Joe] KNOLLENBERG [of Michigan]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the proceedings had during the recess be 
    printed in the Congressional Record.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore.(6) Is there objection to 
    the request of the gentleman from Michigan?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 6. Christopher Shays (CT).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.

Sec. 19.11 By unanimous consent the House considered a concurrent 
    resolution authorizing use of the Capitol Rotunda in ceremonies to 
    honor Americans yet unaccounted for from the Vietnam War.

    On June 26, 1991,(1) the following proceedings took 
place:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 137 Cong. Rec. 16460-62, 102d Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [William (Bill)] CLAY [of Missouri]. Madam Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the Committee on House Administration be 
    discharged from further consideration of the concurrent resolution 
    (H. Con. Res. 158) authorizing the use of the rotunda of the 
    Capitol by the National League of POW/MIA Families for a ceremony 
    to honor the members of the armed services and civilians still 
    imprisoned, missing, and unaccounted for as a result of the Vietnam 
    conflict.
        The Clerk read the title of the concurrent resolution.

                                {time}  1650

        The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. Unsoeld).(2) Is there 
    objection to the request of the gentleman from Missouri?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Jolene Unsoeld (WA).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Bill] BARRETT [of Nebraska]. Madam Speaker, reserving the 
    right to object, I yield to the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. Clay] 
    for the purpose of explaining his request.
        Mr. CLAY. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.
        House Concurrent Resolution 158 provides for the use of the 
    Capitol rotunda by the National League of POW/MIA Families on July 
    13, 1991 at 11 a.m. for a ceremony to honor the members of the 
    armed services and civilians still imprisoned, missing and 
    unaccounted for as a result of the Vietnam conflict. . . .
        Mr. BARRETT. Madam Speaker, I withdraw my reservation of 
    objection.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of 
    the gentleman from Missouri?
        There was no objection.
        The Clerk read the concurrent resolution, as follows:

                                H. Con. Res. 158

            Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate 
        concurring), That the rotunda of the Capitol may be used by the 
        National League of POW/MIA Families on July 13, 1991, from 
        11:00 o'clock ante meridian until 12:00 o'clock noon, for a 
        ceremony to honor the members of the Armed Services and 
        civilians still imprisoned, missing and unaccounted for as a 
        result of the Vietnam conflict. Physical preparations

[[Page 251]]

        for the ceremony shall be carried out in accordance with such 
        conditions as the Architect of the Capitol may prescribe.

        The concurrent resolution was agreed to.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sec. 19.12 Example of a concurrent resolution, considered by unanimous 
    consent, authorizing the use of the Capitol Rotunda for a ceremony.

    On May 23, 1990,(1) the following proceedings took 
place:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 136 Cong. Rec. 12090, 12091, 101st Cong. 2d Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Joe] KOLTER [of Pennsylvania]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the Committee on House Administration be 
    discharged from further consideration of the Senate concurrent 
    resolution (S. Con. Res. 133) providing for the use of the Capitol 
    rotunda, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.
        The Clerk read the title of the Senate concurrent resolution.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore.(2) Is there objection to 
    the request of the gentleman from Pennsylvania?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Mike Parker (MS).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Paul E.] GILLMOR [of Ohio]. Mr. Speaker, reserving the 
    right to object, I would ask the gentleman from Pennsylvania to 
    explain the resolution.
        Mr. KOLTER. Mr. Speaker, if the gentleman will yield, the 
    resolution provides for the use of the rotunda for Members of 
    Congress to assemble in conjunction with a ceremony commemorating 
    American military heroism. The Senate adopted the resolution on 
    Monday and the ceremony is tomorrow.

                                {time}  2200

        It is essential that we adopt it at this time in order to 
    insure that the rotunda is available for the ceremony in the event 
    of inclement weather.
        Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, further reserving the right to 
    object, I join in supporting this resolution. I think it is only 
    appropriate, and I particularly feel, as an Air Force veteran, that 
    we should have this ceremony in the rotunda tomorrow recognizing 
    the bravery of Americans.
        Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to join in supporting 
    the resolution.
        Mr. Speaker, I withdraw my reservation of objection.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Parker). Is there objection to the 
    request of the gentleman from Pennsylvania?
        There was no objection.
        The Clerk read the Senate concurrent resolution, as follows:

                                S. Con. Res. 133

            Whereas America can never forget the sacrifices of our 
        brave military heroes: Now, therefore, be it
            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives 
        concurring), That the Rotunda of the Capitol may be used on 
        Thursday, May 24, 1989, at 10:30 a.m., to allow the assembling 
        of Members of Congress for ceremonies celebrating American 
        Military Heroism.
            Sec. 2. The Architect of the Capitol may prescribe 
        conditions for physical preparations with respect to

[[Page 252]]

        the use of the Rotunda authorized by the first section.

        The Senate concurrent resolution was concurred in.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sec. 19.13 By unanimous consent, the House considered and agreed to a 
    concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the Capitol Rotunda 
    for ceremonies to observe the unveiling of the National League of 
    Families POW/MIA flag.

    On Feb. 22, 1989,(1) the following proceedings took 
place:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 135 Cong. Rec. 2505-08, 101st Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Ronnie G.] FLIPPO [of Alabama]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the Committee on House Administration be 
    discharged from further consideration of the Senate concurrent 
    resolution (S. Con. Res. 5) to provide for the use of the rotunda 
    of the Capitol to inaugurate the display of the POW/MIA flag, and 
    ask for its immediate consideration.
        The Clerk read the title of the Senate concurrent resolution.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore.(2) Is there objection to 
    the request of the gentleman from Alabama?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. George (Buddy) Darden (GA).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.
        The Clerk read the Senate concurrent resolution, as follows:

                                 S. Con. Res. 5

            Whereas America can never forget the sacrifices of our 
        brave servicemen still missing in action, nor the heroic 
        suffering of our prisoners of war;
            Whereas the families of Americans missing in Southeast 
        Asia, having suffered greatly themselves, joined together in 
        1970 as the National League of Families to facilitate and 
        promote the fullest possible accounting for POW/MIAs;
            Whereas the official National League of Families POW/MIA 
        flag symbolizes the nationwide recognition that is justly 
        deserved by the missing and unaccounted for servicemen of all 
        armed conflicts; and
            Whereas the POW/MIA flag is an effective means of further 
        raising public consciousness on this key American issue: Now, 
        therefore, be it
            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives 
        concurring), That the rotunda of the Capitol may be used on 
        Thursday, March 9, 1989, at 3 p.m., for ceremonies to observe 
        the unveiling of the National League of Families POW/MIA flag 
        which shall be displayed in the Capitol Rotunda until a 
        satisfactory accounting of all America's POW/MIA's has taken 
        place. The POW/MIA flag so displayed shall be in such size and 
        at such place as the Architect of the Capitol, the Speaker and 
        the Minority Leader of the United States House of 
        Representatives, and the Majority and Minority Leaders of the 
        United States Senate shall designate.
            Sec. 2. The Architect of the Capitol may prescribe 
        conditions for physical preparations with respect to the use of 
        the rotunda authorized by the first section.

        The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from Alabama [Mr. 
    Flippo] is recognized for 1 hour.
        Mr. FLIPPO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 minutes to the 
    distinguished gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Michel], who is the 
    author of the House companion bill.

[[Page 253]]

        Mr. [Robert H.] MICHEL [of Illinois]. Mr. Speaker, I yield 
    myself such time as I may consume.
        Mr. Speaker, this resolution provides for the display of the 
    POW/MIA flag in the rotunda of the Capitol and allows the rotunda 
    to be used for appropriate ceremonies on March 9 for the unveiling 
    of the flag.
        It is identical as the gentleman indicated, to a resolution I 
    introduced on January 27 here in the House.
        Display of this flag until such time as there has been a 
    satisfactory accounting of all our American POW's and MIA's, is a 
    means of demonstrating our national concern and support for our 
    servicemen who are missing in action or unaccounted for.
        I can think of no better place for this flag to be displayed. 
    The rotunda, with its statues of great Americans like Washington, 
    Jefferson, Lincoln, Jackson, and Grant and the new bust of Martin 
    Luther King is a place fit for American heroes. . . .
        Mr. MICHEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
        The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the Senate 
    concurrent resolution.
        The Senate concurrent resolution was concurred in.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sec. 19.14 The House agreed to a Senate concurrent resolution providing 
    for the purchase of a floral wreath to be placed near catafalques 
    bearing the remains of the unknown dead of World War II and Korea 
    as they lay in state in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

    On May 22, 1958,(1) the Speaker (2) 
recognized Mr. John W. McCormack, of Massachusetts, to offer the 
following resolution:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 104 Cong. Rec. 9368, 85th Cong. 2d Sess.
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. McCORMACK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the 
    immediate consideration of Senate Concurrent Resolution 90.
        The Clerk read the concurrent resolution, as follows:

            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives 
        concurring), That the Sergeant at Arms of the Senate and the 
        Sergeant at Arms of the House of Representatives are each 
        hereby authorized and directed to purchase a floral wreath to 
        be placed by the catafalques bearing the remains of the 
        unknowns of World War II and Korea which are to lie in state in 
        the rotunda of the Capitol of the United States from May 28 to 
        May 30, 1958, the expenses of which shall be paid from the 
        contingent funds of the Senate and the House of 
        Representatives, respectively.

        The concurrent resolution was concurred in.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sec. 19.15 Announcement that Members would meet informally in the House 
    Chamber to proceed in a body to the Rotunda to witness the arrival 
    of the remains of the Unknowns of World War II and Korea.

[[Page 254]]

    On May 27, 1958,(1) the Speaker (2) announced 
that the House would gather informally the next morning (before the 
convening of the House for the day) to attend a commemorative 
ceremony:(3)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 104 Cong. Rec. 9612, 85th Cong. 2d Sess.
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
 3. H. Con. Res. 242 authorized the use of the Rotunda for the lying in 
        state of the soldiers. See 104 Cong. Rec. 2442, 85th Cong. 2d 
        Sess., Feb. 19, 1958. See also Ch. 38 Appendix, infra.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        The SPEAKER. The Chair desires to make the following 
    announcement:
        Members will meet here in the House Chamber, informally, at 
    9:30 a.m. on tomorrow, Wednesday, May 28, 1958, and will then 
    proceed in a body to the rotunda of the Capitol to witness the 
    arrival of the remains of the unknown servicemen of World War II 
    and Korea which will there lie in state until May 30, 1958.

    In the Senate, on May 28, 1958,(4) the following 
proceedings occurred:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 4. 104 Cong. Rec. 9661, 85th Cong. 2d Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Lyndon B.] JOHNSON [of Texas]. Mr. President, I ask 
    unanimous consent that the Senate stand in recess subject to the 
    call of the Chair.
        The VICE PRESIDENT.(5) Is there objection? The Chair 
    hears none, and it is so ordered.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 5. Richard M. Nixon (CA).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Thereupon (at 9 o'clock and 46 minutes, a. m.) the Senate, 
    preceded by its Secretary (Felton M. Johnston), its Sergeant at 
    Arms (Joseph C. Duke), and Vice President Richard M. Nixon, of 
    California, proceeded to the rotunda in the Capitol Building to 
    participate in the commemorative exercises in connection with 
    placing on the catafalques the caskets containing the bodies of the 
    unknown dead of World War II and the Korean war. When the Members 
    of the two Houses had assembled in the rotunda, the Vice President 
    and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, on behalf of the 
    Congress of the United States, placed wreaths before the caskets.
        The Senate reassembled at 10 o'clock and 7 minutes a. m., when 
    called to order by the President pro tempore.

    In the House, on May 28, 1958,(6) Members, by unanimous 
consent and special order respectively, spoke about the ceremony held 
in the Rotunda earlier in the day.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 6. 104 Cong. Rec. 9761, 85th Cong. 2d Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

                           THE TWO UNKNOWN AMERICANS

        Mr. [Eugene J.] KEOUGH [of New York]. Mr. Speaker, I ask 
    unanimous consent to extend my remarks at this point.
        The SPEAKER. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman 
    from New York?
        There was no objection.
        Mr. KEOUGH. Mr. Speaker, it is with great humility that we 
    receive in the Capitol the remains of the two unknown Americans of 
    World War II and of Korea. . . .

[[Page 255]]

        The two unknowns in our midst will give us pause. For here is 
    the symbol of tremendous faith and respect and dedication from 
    which we may all take inspiration. . . 
    .                          -------------------

           THE UNKNOWN SERVICEMEN OF THE KOREAN WAR AND WORLD WAR II

        The SPEAKER. Under previous order of the House, the gentlewoman 
    from Massachusetts [Mrs. Rogers] is recognized for 10 minutes. . . 
    .
        Mrs. [Edith Nourse] ROGERS of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I 
    believe everyone of us, as we viewed this morning in the rotunda of 
    the Capitol the flag-covered caskets of the two unknown soldiers, 
    one from the Korean war and one from World War II, soldiers known 
    only to God, was deeply moved. . . .
        Mr. Speaker, our prayers, our love and devotion and undying 
    gratitude will be with them always. They typify every soldier known 
    only to God.

Sec. 19.16 A concurrent resolution providing that the flag of the 
    United States shall be displayed at half mast over the Capitol 
    Building on the date of arrival in port of the first vessel 
    returning to the United States with the remains of American 
    soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who gave their lives to 
    their country in the Korean hostilities.

    On Mar. 20, 1951,(1) Mr. J. Percy Priest, of Tennessee, 
asked unanimous consent for the immediate consideration of Senate 
Concurrent Resolution 20. The proceedings were as follows:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 97 Cong. Rec. 2673, 2674, 82d Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

                           honoring our korean heroes

        Mr. PRIEST. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for the 
    immediate consideration of the concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 
    20) to display the flag on the Capitol at half-mast on the occasion 
    of the first arrival of the remains of members of the armed 
    services killed in Korea.
        The Clerk read the concurrent resolution, as follows:

            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives 
        concurring), That the flag of the United States shall be 
        displayed at half-mast on the Capitol Building on the date of 
        the arrival in port of the first vessel returning to the United 
        States the remains of gallant and heroic American soldiers, 
        sailors, marines, and airmen who gave their lives to their 
        country in the Korean hostilities. . . .

        The SPEAKER.(2) Is there objection to the request of 
    the gentleman from Tennessee?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        There was no objection.
        The concurrent resolution was concurred in.
        A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

Sec. 19.17 When the unconditional surrender of Germany

[[Page 256]]

    (World War II) was anticipated as imminent, the Speaker arranged 
    that Members of the House might remain in their seats in recess to 
    hear the expected Presidential proclamation.

    On May 7, 1945,(1) Mr. John W. McCormack, of 
Massachusetts, requested permission for the House to hear the expected 
proclamation of the unconditional surrender of Germany in World War II.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. 91 Cong. Rec. 4264, 79th Cong. 1st Sess.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. McCORMACK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that it may 
    be in order during the remainder of the day for the Speaker to 
    declare such recess as he may desire, the reconvening of the House 
    to be subject to the call of the Chair.
        The SPEAKER.(2) Is there objection to the request of 
    the gentleman from Massachusetts?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. Sam Rayburn (TX).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Mr. [Joseph W.] MARTIN [Jr.], of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, 
    reserving the right to object, I do this for the purpose of making 
    an inquiry as to the object of this request and ask for any detail 
    that the gentleman might like to give us.
        Mr. McCORMACK. In the event the hoped-for proclamation from an 
    official angle of VE-day has arrived, I thought it might be that 
    the Speaker would desire to have the House stand in recess. There 
    are many rumors. The leadership, as far as I am able to ascertain, 
    has nothing definite although it is hoped that the official 
    announcement may be made possibly some time during the afternoon, 
    in which event the Speaker may desire to have the House stand in 
    recess.
        The SPEAKER. Permit the Chair to make this statement: The Chair 
    has been in communication with the White House this morning. The 
    Chair knows nothing more than any other Member of the House. But in 
    case the President of the United States issues a proclamation this 
    afternoon it will be on the air and the Chair has arranged that the 
    Members may remain in their seats to hear this proclamation. The 
    Chair thinks it would be wise, therefore, for the House to be in 
    recess for this reason.

    Parliamentarian's Note: The radio gallery connected their radio 
system to the House amplifiers. However, the proclamation did not come 
that day; it came at 9 a.m. the next day, before the House met.