Honor Flight of Southern Oregon

Floor Speech

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Mr. BENTZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Korean and Vietnam War Veterans from Oregon's Second Congressional District who are visiting their memorials on the National Mall through the efforts of Honor Flight of Oregon. When I have the opportunity to meet these heroes, I am reminded of the enduring words of Douglas MacArthur, who said, ``Duty, honor, country. Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be.'' The words he spoke then, Madam Speaker, still ring true today. Those who value liberty are indebted to these heroes, for each one of them chose to defend freedom through acts of service, incredible sacrifice, and bravery on behalf of our country. It is my privilege to include in the Record their names.

The Veterans on this Honor Flight from Oregon are as follows: John Cullett, Navy; Thomas Clarke, Marine Corps; Robert Cline, Air Force; Dominic LaRosa, Navy; Harry Nystrom, Navy; Richard Traugh, Army; Virgil Wilkes, Army; Agnes Aamot, Air Force; Edward Seto, Army; Charles Arguijo, Marine Corps; Steven Baker, Navy; John Banuat, Army; Ronald Bly, Marine Corps; Robert Danielson Air Force; Charles Elmore, Army; Gary Goulart, Navy; Melvin Griffith, Navy; Karl Hoehne, Marine Corps; Larry Larangiera, Army; Richard Otto, Navy; Kenneth Pottmeyer Army; James Pringle, Navy; Don Stark, Air Force; Clyde Thrift, Air Force; Terry Weakley, Army; Billy Wirch, Navy; Warren Clark, Marine Corps; Charles Elmore, Army; Helene LaRosa, Air Force; Bryan Bailey, Navy; and Nicholas Rupe, National Guard. These heroes join over 240,000 Veterans who have been honored through the Honor Flight Network of volunteers nationwide since 2005.

Madam Speaker, Ronald Reagan affirmed that, ``We owe this freedom of choice and action to those men and women in uniform who have served this nation and its interests in time of need. In particular, we are forever indebted to those who have given their lives that we might be free.'' As a nation, we must never take for granted the liberties we enjoy today, recognizing that these freedoms have been hard-won by the honor, commitment, and sacrifice of our Veterans. Each Member in this chamber and citizen in these United States should be humbled by the courage of the brave Veterans who voluntarily underwent dangers and successes in order to preserve our country and way of life. Colleagues, please join me in thanking these Veterans and the volunteers of Honor Flight of Oregon for their remarkable service and devotion to our great country.

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