Expression of Appreciation for Paralyzed Veterans of America

EXPRESSION OF APPRECIATION FOR PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA

Mr. FRIST. I ask unanimous consent that the Senate now proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 337, submitted by Senator Murkowski earlier today.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the resolution by title.

The legislative clerk read as follows:

A resolution (S. Res. 337) expressing the appreciation of the Senate for the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the resolution.

Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, today it is my distinct honor to rise and submit a Senate resolution recognizing the Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Week, which is April 11-17, 2004.

Many of my colleagues may not be aware what an outstanding civic-minded organization the PVA is in our country. But first let me tell you that these are not just ordinary citizens-they are veterans who sacrificed for our Nation in ways we can never fully repay. The PVA is composed of veterans of the Armed Forces who have spinal cord injuries. They are veterans who honorably and nobly served their country and continue to serve on a daily basis.

The PVA provides invaluable services to veterans' families and to our own Department of Veterans Affairs-ensuring that civil rights and access to viable transportation and affordable housing will always be provided to those with spinal cord injuries. PVA does this so their members may have the same opportunities as the rest of us-for whom these brave members fought-that they may have the independence that we all are blessed with in this country.

The PVA is a leader in medical and prosthetic research, funding two research foundations that investigate a broad spectrum of neurological sciences to seek a cure for spinal cord injury as well as breakthroughs in rehabilitation to improve the quality of life of all Americans with spinal cord injuries.

I would like to also remind my fellow Senators that the PVA is the sponsor of the Nation's largest wheelchair sports programs, fostering a wide range of sporting, and indoor, and outdoor recreational events to encourage physical activity and comradeship so vital to the ongoing rehabilitation of its members.

I encourage all of you, indeed all Americans, to take time next week to thank those who have made such tremendous sacrifices in order for us to enjoy the freedoms we now posses. And please take time from your day and find out how you can help and volunteer with your local PVA chapter.