Americans Appreciate France

Floor Speech

AMERICANS APPRECIATE FRANCE -- (House of Representatives - November 07, 2005)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Americans were saddened over the weekend to see rioters spread fire and violence across France with nearly 5,000 vehicles burned, stretching into the heart of Paris. As a person of French heritage, I am particularly shocked that 34 police officers are injured, including 10 wounded by gunshots. This outburst of violence is a chilling reminder that appeasement is a failed course which leads to greater violence.

I am particularly disappointed France did not show resolve in the Cold War as defenders of freedom actively defeated Communism, and I am disappointed France has not shown resolve in the global war on terrorism, as we resist terrorists from London to Baghdad to Bali. But our hearts and our heritage are with France, which we treasure as America's first ally. With resolve we can stop extremism at its source; peace can be restored.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11.

Source