National Park Service Operations, Smithsonian Institution, National Gallery of Art, and United States Holocaust Museum Continuing Appropriations Resolution

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the World War II veterans who today sent a clear message that they would not be locked out of their own memorial. This morning, because of the Senate Democrats' unwillingness to negotiate on a deal to fund the government, the National Park Service was ordered to close many of our Nation's monuments, including the National World War II Memorial. These memorials are not regularly closed for any purpose and remain open 24 hours a day. The government went out of their way to ensure Americans could not access their own memorial.

Not to be deterred, a group of veterans on an Honor Flight from Mississippi showed the resolve that made them America's Greatest Generation, moving barricades aside so they could appreciate the memorial that commemorates their generation's heroism and sacrifices.

Mr. Speaker, Americans--especially America's heroes--should not be punished because Senate Democrats refused to come to the table and do their job, negotiating a solution to fund the government. The bill before us would reopen America's national monuments and parks so that we, as Americans, can continue to honor our heroes in the manner they have earned.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the World War II veterans who made headlines today and the dozen more Honor Flights that will visit the National World War II Memorial this week by passing the bill before us and ensuring that the memorial will be open to welcome our Nation's heroes.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source