H726 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 8, 2000 and her mother were taken to the woods of ference in Stockholm, pursuing war criminals Senate Concurrent Resolution 91, the Paneriai outside of Vilnius, stripped down to is ``a moral duty that must be fulfilled in the pending measure. their underwear, lined up at the edge of pits, 21st century as well,'' and that ``forgiving and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there and viciously gunned down. forgetting [the culprits] is out of the question.'' objection to the request of the gen- Fruma and Gitta Kaplan did not face their I could not agree more strongly with this tleman from New York? horrible fate along. Prior to 1941, Vilnius was sentiment. There was no objection. home to one of the most vibrant Jewish com- The prosecution of Nazi war criminals will Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no munities in Europe. It was called the ``Jeru- complement and strengthen the efforts of the further requests for time, and I yield salem of the North.'' Artists, scholars, philoso- question.'' I could not agree more strongly with back the balance of my time. phers, and religious leaders all lived there, this sentiment. Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I have no fur- men and women renowned for their intellec- The prosecution of Nazi war criminals will ther requests for time, and I yield back tual and cultural talents. After the Nazi inva- complement and strengthen the efforts of the the balance of my time. sion, they were slaughteredÐ55,000 of Lithuanian Government to promote Holocaust The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Vilnius' 60,000 Jews perished during World education. The Commission for the Investiga- question is on the motion offered by War II. tion of Crimes Committed during the Nazi and the gentleman from New York (Mr. The death warrants for Gitta and little Fruma Soviet Occupation of Lithuania, formed in GILMAN) that the House suspend the were signed by Aleksandras Lileikis, the Chief 1998 and ably co-chaired by Dr. Zingeris, rules and concur in the Senate concur- of the Lithuanian Security Police for Vilnius promises a thorough study of ``the role of Lith- rent resolution, Senate Concurrent Province. He supervised the slaughter of uanians and others in the local population as Resolution 91. Vilnius' Jewish community with precision and perpetrators and/or collaborators in the Holo- The question was taken. zeal, sending Jews to Paneriai regardless of caust.'' The most vital responsibility of the Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, on that I age and infirmity. The Kaplan documents Commission is clearly stated in its mission demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. statement: ``Support for the preparation of make up only a small portion of the over- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- educational materials and curricula for school whelming evidence which establishes Lileikis' ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the students at all levels, to promote study, dis- guilt. Our own Department of Justice calls this Chair’s prior announcement, further cussion and understanding of Lithuanian his- evidence in the Lileikis case a ``shockingly proceedings on this motion will be tory during the Nazi and Soviet occupations.'' complete paper trail.'' postponed. Lileikis and his deputy, Kazys Gimzauskas, Mr. Speaker, the true measure of the Commis- f escaped Lithuania and came to the United sion's success rests in its ability to convey its States after World War II. They lived quite findings to the children and grandchildren of RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVER- lives, Lileikis in Massachusetts and today's Lithuanians. I am hopeful that it will SARY OF THE KOREAN WAR AND Gimzauskas in Florida, evading the con- achieve this goal. THE SERVICE BY MEMBERS OF sequences of their crimes. It wasn't until this Mr. Speaker, I welcome the changes that THE ARMED FORCES DURING past decadeÐafter the collapse of the Soviet have taken place in Lithuania over the past SUCH WAR Union and the opening of archives and other decade. As I mentioned earlier, I had the op- Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I move to sources of information not available until that portunity this past January to visit Vilnius and suspend the rules and pass the joint pointÐthat the U.S. Department of Justice see first-hand the changes. While there, I par- resolution (H.J. Res. 86) recognizing was able to accumulate the evidence which ticipated in the Lithuanian opening of ``The the 50th anniversary of the Korean War established the legal basis for stripping U.S. Last Days,'' a documentary produced by Ste- and the service by members of the citizenship from these two individuals, who ven Spielberg and the Shoah Foundation Armed Forces during such war, and for covered up their horrendous crimes. They about the experiences of five Hungarian sur- other purposes. were deported from the United States and vivors of the Holocaust. I was one of those The Clerk read as follows: ended up back in the newly independent Lith- five survivors, Mr. Speaker. As I walked H.J. RES. 86 uania. through the neighborhood formerly occupied Whereas on June 25, 1950, Communist Since their return to Lithuania, Lileikis and by the Jewish Ghetto, I was reminded of a North Korea invaded South Korea with ap- Gimzauskas classified their wartime activities part of Lithuanian heritage that can never be proximately 90,000 troops, thereby initiating as the deeds of ``Lithuanian patriots,'' slan- replacedÐthe talents and gifts of a quarter the Korean War; dering the legacy of the untold thousands of million murdered citizens and their unborn de- Whereas on June 27, 1950, President Harry courageous Lithuanians who fought to defend scendants. The loss overwhelmed me. S Truman ordered military intervention in their national identity against Soviet might. Later that evening, at the movie premiere, I Korea; was joined in my emotion by President Whereas approximately 5,720,000 members Even so, these shameless men were never of the Armed Forces served during the Ko- brought to trial, as their claims of medical and Adamkus, Prime Minister Kubilius, Speaker rean War to defeat the spread of communism age-related infirmities stalled court pro- Landsbergis, and a host of other prominent in Korea and throughout the world; ceedings indefinitely. The legal amendments Lithuanian leaders. They attended as rep- Whereas casualties of the United States passed by the Seimas promise to alter this resentatives of modern LithuaniaÐa nation during the Korean War included 54,260 dead status, because the Prosecutor-General of strengthened by perseverance, emboldened (of whom 33,665 were battle deaths), 92,134 Lithuania can now initiate trials for Lileikis and by freedom, and sensitive to the con- wounded, and 8,176 listed as missing in ac- sequences of human rights denied. It is a na- tion or prisoners of war; and Gimzauskas without further delay. Whereas service by members of the Armed Lileikis and Gimzauskas are not alone. Sev- tion that, I am confident, will continue to learn Forces in the Korean War should never be eral other Nazis have been denaturalized and from the lessons of its past and will use them forgotten: Now, therefore, be it deported by the U.S. Department of Justice, to shape its future. The passage of the Resolved by the Senate and House of and the memory of the Holocaust demands amendments to allow war criminals to be tried Representatives of the United States of that they be brought to justice as soon as pos- in absentia, and the prospect that the cases of America in Congress assembled, That the sible. It is imperative that the Lithuanian Gov- Aleksandras Lileikis and other Nazi murderers Congress— ernment send a firm and principled message will soon move forward, further strengthens (1) recognizes the historic significance of the 50th anniversary of the Korean War; that the murder of 240,000 of its Jewish citi- my faith in this conviction. (2) expresses the gratitude of the people of zens in the Holocaust will never be forgotten, Mr. Speaker, it is in this spirit that I urge my the United States to the members of the not in this generation or in any generation to colleagues to join me in supporting S. Con. Armed Forces who served in the Korean War; come. It is my hope that Lithuania will soon Res. 19. The accomplishments of the Lithua- (3) honors the memory of service members demonstrate this commitment by opening trials nian people during the past decades are im- who paid the ultimate price for the cause of against Lileikis, Gimazuskas, and other Lithua- pressive, but they pale only in comparison to freedom, including those who remain unac- nians who participated in Nazi atrocities. the promise of this great nation in the years to counted for; and Mr. Speaker, I applaud recent statements by come. (4) calls upon the President to issue a proclamation— GENERAL LEAVE President Valdas Adamkus, Prime Minister (A) recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Andrius Kubilius, and Speaker Landsbergis in Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask Korean War and the sacrifices of the mem- support of the immediate prosecution of Nazi unanimous consent that all Members bers of the Armed Forces who served and war criminals. As the Prime Minister elo- may have 5 legislative days in which to fought in Korea to defeat the spread of com- quently noted at the January Holocaust con- revise and extend their remarks on munism; and

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 03:58 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A08MR7.166 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 March 8, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H727 (B) calling upon the people of the United In addition, K company had no re- pause and think about those, many of States to observe such anniversary with ap- coilless rifles, the main weapon used whom had just served in World War II, propriate ceremonies and activities. against tanks, and the only jeep in the some of whom were not young enough The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- weapons company was a privately to have served in World War II, Mr. ant to the rule, the gentleman from In- owned vehicle belonging to one of the Speaker, but they found themselves in diana (Mr. BUYER) and the gentleman privates. Furthermore, the artillery at- a similar position as Mr. Green. from Missouri (Mr. SKELTON) each will tached to Task Force Smith possessed My father, John Buyer, is a Korean control 20 minutes. only 13 anti-tank artillery rounds. War-era veteran. He went to Culver The Chair recognizes the gentleman On July 2, 1950, the Task Force Military Academy. He went to the from Indiana (Mr. BUYER). moved north from Pusan, South Korea, Citadel. After all those years of mili- GENERAL LEAVE pushing through endless lines of bewil- tary training, he decided to decline his Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I ask dered refugees and retreating South commission, and wanted to go into unanimous consent that all Members Korean Army units. medicine. But he got drafted. And in- may have 5 legislative days in which to On July 5, 1950, a strong force of stead of all his peers serving in the offi- revise and extend their remarks on North Korean infantry and tanks cer corps, my father taught me many House Joint Resolution 86, now under struck Task Force Smith as it stood things in his silence. consideration. alone in the roadway between attack- He ended up as a sergeant in the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ing communist forces and the rest of a Army. Not once did he ever complain. objection to the request of the gen- free South Korea. The outnumbered Not once did he ever say, oh, I could tleman from Indiana? Americans fired artillery, bazookas, have been an officer. No. His country There was no objection. mortars and their rifles at North Ko- called and he did his duty, like mil- Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- rean communists and their Russian- lions before. self such time as I may consume. made tanks. I do not know whoever said that the The forgotten war. That is what During the battle, Task Force Smith Korean War was the forgotten war. But many of our Korean War veterans was hopelessly outgunned and out- from my point of view, as a son of a think about their service in Korea and numbered. In the area of operations for Korean War-era veteran, it is a mean- the Korean era, and yet there are so the 24th Division, Mr. Green’s 21st regi- ingful war to me. many names in the Korean War that ment was outmanned nine to one, ap- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of are permanently installed in the Amer- proximately 9,000 to 1,000. The 21st In- my time. ican lexicon. Such names as Inchon, fantry, with only two rifle companies, Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield the 38th parallel, Heartbreak Ridge, a battery of 105 howitzers, two mortar myself such time as I may consume. Pork Chop Hill. How is it that we have platoons, and six bazooka teams re- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong come to forever remember the places of ceived its baptism of fire in Korea by support of this resolution, H.J. Res. 86, war but overlook the people that sac- holding an entire enemy division for 7 a resolution commemorating the 50th rificed and endured? hours. Escaping impending doom near anniversary of the Korean War. I would like to share a soldier’s Osan, the 21st fought its way out of en- I cannot help, while sitting here story. And there are many stories that circlement and retreated 12 miles awaiting my moment to speak, to individuals can share, whether it is in south. think of names like Barney Rostine, the sea or on the ground or in the air, Following the battle at Osan, Task Richard Yates, Jim Sparks, school- but I would like to tell this one of a Force Smith defended the town of mates of mine who paid the ultimate teenager from White County, Indiana, Taejon, half way between the North price and were killed in action during by the name of Bill Green. Korean border and Pusan, the last the Korean War. stronghold of American and South Ko- I was fortunate to have a roommate b 1500 rean forces. in law school who later became a judge On June 23, 1950, before dawn, North In August and September, Mr. Green in Brookfield, Missouri, by the name of Korean artillery opened fire across the participated in the defense of Pusan, Robert Devoy, who fought in the Pusan 38th parallel with preparatory fires. A which was only one area between ad- Perimeter, the conflict of which the half hour later, the North Korean vancing North Korean forces and the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. BUYER) Army commenced a four-prong attack sea. just mentioned. So it is with great re- with an estimated nine divisions, num- On September 19, 1950, Task Force spect and reverence that I support this bering 80,000 men, 150 tanks and numer- Smith attacked across the Naktong resolution today. ous artillery pieces. River, breaking out of the Pusan Pe- Fifty years ago this June, President At the time, Mr. Green served with K rimeter and beginning the rapid ad- Harry S. Truman ordered United Company, the 21st Infantry, and the vance to the north, thus escaping the States military intervention on the 24th Infantry. He was stationed in fall of South Korea and the certain Korean Peninsula. Over the next 3 Japan as part of the World War II death of thousands of Americans and years, over 54,000 Americans paid the Army of Occupation under General South Koreans. ultimate price; and 33,000 were actually Douglas MacArthur. The reason I pause to share this is, killed in action. Over 110,000 Americans In less than a week, Mr. Green and this was an individual who was, like were wounded or missing in action. In his unit were air transported to Korea many others, teenagers, young men in addition, over 228,000 South Korean sol- and formed Task Force Smith. The their 20s even. They went and served in diers and untold numbers of civilians Force was tasked to delay and defend the military. This was the aftermath of gave their lives. the attacking North Koreans at Osan, World War II. They found themselves These stark statistics serve as a re- only 50 miles from the North Korean in the comfort of an occupation force. minder to all of us that the aphorism border. They were not adequately trained. ‘‘freedom isn’t free’’ is more than just Task Force Smith was comprised of They were not adequately manned and a few words. The sacrifices of thou- the 7th, the 24th, and the 25th Divi- staffed. They were not even adequately sands of American service members sions, as well as the 1st Cavalry. They resourced. Yet they were called be- purchased the freedom that South Ko- were severely undermanned and totaled cause their country called them to reans enjoy to this day, a freedom that 66 percent of the normal combat duty. And that is what they were, our military continues to protect. strength. The 24th Division, to which called to duty. And they had to face an In many respects, our participation Mr. Green was assigned, had only 10,800 outnumbered force. in the Korea conflict presaged and has men of a required 18,900 strength. Yet they fought with truly an Amer- served as a model for our way of mili- In fact, when Mr. Green’s company ican character. They fought for no tary operations today. arrived in Korea, it carried only two 81- bounty of their own but to only leave Korea was the first multilateral mm base plates and two mortar tubes freedom in their footsteps. The Korean United Nations operation, and it has but no bipods to stabilize the weapon War. Over 55,000 lost their lives in the become the longest standing peace- and no sights to aim the weapon. Korean War. It is only proper that we keeping operation in modern times.

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 05:17 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A08MR7.167 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 H728 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 8, 2000 The unfortunate experience of Task It is truly a most moving tribute to erans both in Albany and in Troy; and Force Smith has taught us the para- our servicemen. on the first Monday of every month, mount importance of sending forces The Korean War ended just before I Mr. Speaker, in Albany, we salute a into battle only when they are ade- graduated from high school, but it was distinguished veteran. We do the same quately trained and equipped. a real part of my life. My brother was thing on the second Monday of every We have also learned that units can- serving in the military. Later I met single month in Rensselaer county to not be thrown piecemeal into battle many of my future college fraternity keep the memories alive and to give but must be engaged in a coordinated brothers who had served in Korea, and thanks. fashion with air and sea power and I shared stories with them. But even And so today I salute and pay tribute with overwhelming force. though the fighting in Korea ended in to the more than 54,000 Americans who The lessons of the Korean War, 1953, for the next 40 years, America gave their lives in service to our coun- taught at such great costs, have served stood on the victory of our soldiers in try, a sacrifice which my brother made us well in the conflicts in which we Korea. And I believe that the victory in in a succeeding war. I also salute those have participated since then, from Korea started the downfall of com- who are still alive today from the Ko- Vietnam to the Persian Gulf War and munism, until its ultimate defeat 10 rean era; and there are many, like my now in Bosnia and Kosovo. years ago. And yet, our military still friend Ned Haggerty who is twice the As much as we may be inclined to re- serves freedom’s goals in Korea in pro- recipient of the Purple Heart. member the leaders who ultimately tecting this country. This is a good resolution, also, for us brought us victory in the Korean War— In my own Congressional district, to generally stop and pause and get our Truman, MacArthur, Acheson, Walker veterans have joined together to build priorities straight and to remember and Ridgeway—it is really the men and a Korean War Veterans National Mu- that had it not been for the men and women who served so bravely to whom seum and Library in Tuscola, Illinois. women who wore the uniform of the we should pay tribute today. And that This may well be the first facility sole- United States military through the is what we do. Without their selfless ly devoted to the remembrance, re- years, we would not have the privilege dedication, their valor, their persever- search, and study of the Korean War. of going around bragging about how we ance, the people of South Korea would By calling on the President to issue a live in the freest and most open democ- not be living in a free and prosperous proclamation recognizing the 50th an- racy on earth. Freedom is not free. We society as they are. niversary of the Korean War and call- paid a tremendous price for it. That is This resolution recognizes their serv- ing on the American people to observe why when I get up in the morning as my first two priorities, I thank God for ice, expresses the gratitude of the this occasion with appropriate cere- my life and then I thank veterans for American people, and calls upon the monies and activities, efforts such as my way of life. Today, I especially President of the United States to issue these of the veterans in the 15th Dis- an appropriate proclamation, some- thank those from the Korean era. trict of Illinois remembering this war Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 thing he unquestionably should do. will be very, very meaningful. minutes to the gentleman from Ari- Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues As veterans across the country join zona (Mr. STUMP), chairman of the to support H.J. Res. 86. together over the next 3 years to re- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of member both the victories and their Mr. STUMP. Mr. Speaker, I thank my time. fallen colleagues, we in Congress must the gentleman from Indiana for yield- Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 take the lead by saying thank you to ing time to me. I thank the gentleman minutes to the gentleman from Illinois those who returned and those who did from Illinois (Mr. EWING) for intro- (Mr. EWING), the sponsor of the bill. not. ducing this measure. (Mr. EWING asked and was given per- Regretfully, the Korean War is often Mr. Speaker, June 25 will mark the mission to revise and extend his re- referred to as ‘‘the forgotten war.’’ By 50th anniversary of the outbreak of the marks.) passing this resolution, we in the Korean War. It is called the forgotten Mr. EWING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today House of Representatives, Republicans war not because it was not important, in support of House Joint Resolution and Democrats, but first of all Ameri- but because it came between the most 86, which I proudly have introduced in cans, we can help end that nomen- popular war, World War II, and the this House. clature for the Korean War. most controversial war, the war in The year 2000 marks the 50th anni- I would not only like to thank Chairman Vietnam. It was the first real resist- versary of the Korean War. This joint SPENCE for bringing this bill forward for consid- ance to world communism. resolution recognizes this important eration, but I would also like to thank him and America at the mid-century point anniversary and the sacrifice of all all of our colleagues whose service here in still yearned for peace. That was espe- members of the Armed Forces who this chamber was preceded by their sacrifice cially true for those of us who fought served there. in Korea in defense of freedom. during World War II. But it was not to I thank the 210 of my colleagues who In a short while, we will vote on this joint be. World War II had made America the have cosponsored this important piece resolution. Let it not be forgotten that we may undisputed champion of the free world. of legislation, and I thank them for of- not even have this opportunity to vote this day There was no other power capable of fering their support to the Korean War had it not been for these heroes who so faith- responding when North Korea launched veterans. fully fought to protect the republic. To the vet- an all-out predawn attack on the south On June 25, 1950, communist North erans who served and those who made the ul- hoping to unite the Korean peninsula Korean forces crossed the 38th Parallel timate sacrifice, we say thank you. under Communist rule. North Korea and invaded the country of South Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 with the aid of the Soviet Union and Korea. Two days later, on June 27, 1950, minutes to the gentleman from New Communist China thought conquest President Harry S. Truman called on York (Mr. MCNULTY). would be quick and easy. American military forces to intervene. Mr. Speaker, they were wrong. The b 1515 Over the next 3 years, 5.72 million Korean War was as bitter and bloody as Americans would heed the call to serv- Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in any war America ever fought. It taught ice. very strong support of this joint reso- us many lessons and still teaches us When the fighting came to an end on lution of which I am proud to be a co- today. It taught a lesson to those who July 27, 1953, 92,134 had been wounded, sponsor. I agree with the author of this thought America would not accept the 54,260 Americans had died, 33,665 of resolution and the other Members who role of defender of the free world. Mr. which were battle dead; 8,176 were ei- have spoken in saying that it is high Speaker, it is my hope by the time this ther prisoners of war or missing in ac- time we remove any remaining percep- year is over, neither the Korean War tion. tion that this is a forgotten war. I am nor the men who fought in it will be Every time I have visitors come to very proud of the fact that in the 21st forgotten any longer. It certainly will this great city, one of the things that I District of the State of New York, it is not be forgotten by the more than like to see them take in, particularly certainly not forgotten. We have beau- 50,000 families who lost loved ones in at night, is the Korean War Memorial. tiful memorials to the Korean War vet- the Korean War.

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 03:58 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K08MR7.062 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 March 8, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H729 Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 responded immediately to the call for help. recognition, the Korean War having be- minutes to the gentleman from Texas They left families, traveled thousands of miles come known as the forgotten war. I (Mr. REYES). from home to the Korean peninsula, fought hope we can change that designation. Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the fiercely for freedom, and turned back the tide Those who served in Korea faced the gentleman for yielding me the time. I of communist aggression. same harrowing experiences and per- rise in strong support of this bill. With Some may call Korea the ``Forgotten War'', sonal sacrifices that all veterans face over 60,000 military retirees and vet- but we must never forget the enormous sac- while engaged in hostilities. The Ko- erans in my district, which includes rifices these fine American's made. I fill with rean War was the first successful mul- thousands of Korean War veterans, I pride as I listen to veterans from my district tinational operation carried out under am proud to be a cosponsor of this bill speak of their Korean War experiences. One U.N. auspices. At the same time, the and to speak in support of its passage can only imagine the horrors of war they un- strong U.S. desire to keep the Soviet today. derwent. I salute those who endured the bitter Union out of the conflict placed severe The 50th anniversary of the Korean cold, driving monsoon rains, nerve-racking constraints on U.S. operations in War is a time for all Americans to re- machine gun fire, and relentless bombardment Korea. flect on the incredible sacrifices made in their successful attempt to protect freedom Over the past few years, there has by our men and women in preserving for all. been a strong focus on the 2,000 unac- liberty on the Korean peninsula. Mr. It is time, Mr. Speaker, to recognize and counted-for POWs and MIAs of the Speaker, our Korean War veterans are honor these great Americans. General Mat- Vietnam war. While our hearts go out America’s heroes for their incredible thew Ridgeway, 8th United States Army Com- to all the families of missing veterans, courage and bravery. They fought for mander, best described what the service men we must not forget that 8,100 veterans freedom under some of the harshest and women were fighting for under his com- are still unaccounted for in Korea. Ac- combat conditions imaginable. mand in Korea. He accurately noted ``this has cordingly, Mr. Speaker, I urge our dis- Last December I had the opportunity long since ceased to be a fight for freedom for tinguished colleagues to support H.J. to visit our troops stationed in Korea. our Korean Allies alone and for their national Res. 86 so that the efforts of our Ko- I saw firsthand the rough terrain and survival. It has become, and it continues to be, rean veterans can be duly recognized. cold and cruel climate that our Korean a fight for our own freedom, for our own sur- Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 veterans endured and which our troops vival, in an honorable, independent national minutes to the gentleman´ from Puerto today continue to bear in defense of existence.'' Our fine men and women fought to Rico (Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´). peace along the 38th Parallel. Looking uphold the principles of our democracy. They (Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO asked and back on these sacrifices, none of us fought for our liberty. was given permission to revise and ex- should ever forget the honorable serv- Let us never forget the 5,720,000 Ameri- tend his remarks.) ´ ice of our Korean War veterans, nor cans who nobly served on land, in the air, and Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO. Mr. Speak- should we forget the sacrifices made by at sea during the Korean War. Their sacrifices er, I want to join my colleagues in hon- their families. were immeasurable and accomplishments oring the veterans of the Korean War As the Korean War memorial in great in places like Pusan, Chosen Reservoir, on the 50th anniversary of the begin- Washington, D.C. reflects, freedom is Yalu River, and Inchon. They faced an enemy ning of this international conflict. The not free. No one knows that better of superior number, but never their equal in men and women who served in the than our Korean War veterans. Mil- determination and fortitude. These Americans armed forces during this so-called for- lions of American soldiers left their took the first stand against communism and gotten war are to be commended for families, friends, and their lives to de- won. the sacrifices they made while fighting fend the people of a faraway land, far The Korean War taught us several things in this distant land. from the United States. They are part which are applicable today. First, it reminds us I especially want to commend the of our American legacy that has al- to recognize, appreciate and take care of the veterans from Puerto Rico who served ways been ready to take up arms when- veterans who fought for this country. Let us our country during this period. Over ever necessary to protect our national continue to build upon our first session suc- 61,000 Puerto Rican soldiers served in security and turn back the attacks of cesses in regards to veterans legislation. We Korea, constituting 8 percent of the totalitarianism. When we stand and must honor our commitment to veterans, as U.S. forces. Individually, they received take stock of the freedom and security they honored their obligations in Korea. numerous awards for gallantry in com- that our Nation enjoys today, let us It also reminds us of the importance of hav- bat, including 8 recipients of the Dis- never take for granted the contribu- ing a fully manned, equipped, and trained tinguished Service Cross and 129 recipi- tions and patriotism of our Korean War force. Ready forces deter the type of aggres- ents of the Silver Star. The Army’s veterans. sion we saw exhibited in Korea. America's most decorated unit during the Korean This 50th anniversary commemora- forces must have the resources to be able to conflict was the Puerto Rican 65th In- tion should, therefore, serve as a protect our freedom. fantry Regiment, which was known strong reminder of our gratitude to our Mr. Speaker, please join me in supporting throughout the Army as the Korean War veterans and to our sol- House Joint Resolution 86, recognizing the Borinquenos, which is from the Indian diers currently deployed around the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War. Amer- name for Puerto Rico. In total 3,049 world serving proudly on behalf of this ica's men and women served bravely and de- Puerto Ricans were wounded in combat country. It honors the memory of those serve our highest recognition. and 756 gave their lives in defense of who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 American democratic values. I would cause of freedom and recognizes our minute to the gentleman from New like to share a letter from General continuing commitment to those who York (Mr. GILMAN), chairman of the Douglas MacArthur, the Supreme Com- remain unaccounted and still missing. Committee on International Relations. mander for the allied powers in the Ko- Let us with this resolution begin a (Mr. GILMAN asked and was given rean operation, who wrote to the com- year of remembrance and recognition. permission to revise and extend his re- mander of the 65th Infantry on Feb- Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield marks.) ruary 12, 1951: such time as he may consume to the Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank ‘‘The Puerto Ricans forming the rank gentleman from New York (Mr. the gentleman for yielding me the of the gallant 65th infantry on the bat- SWEENEY). time. I am pleased to rise in support of tlefield of Korea by valor, determina- (Mr. SWEENEY asked and was given this resolution enabling Congress to tion and a resolute will to victory give permission to revise and extend his re- duly recognize the significance of the daily testament to their invincible loy- marks.) 50th anniversary of the Korean War alty to the United States and the fer- Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in and allowing us to pay tribute to our vor of their devotion to those immu- support of the resolution. armed forces who served and honoring table standards of human relations to When war broke out in Korea, America those who made the ultimate sacrifice which the Americans and Puerto plunged headlong into conflict half a world or are still unaccounted for as a result Ricans are in common dedicated. They away without even a week's notice. Brave of the Korean War. Regrettably the Ko- are writing a brilliant record of men and women from around our great nation rean veterans have not received due achievement in battle and I am proud

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 03:58 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K08MR7.066 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 H730 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 8, 2000 indeed to have them in this command. the Korean War as the war of my generation. up their lives and then come back I wish that we may have many more There were 5.7 million of us who served home to find themselves faced with like them.’’ worldwide during the Korean War. getting food stamps and adequate pay I thank the gentleman for allowing Unfortunately, the veterans of that War have and just plainly a lack of respect for me the opportunity to honor the sac- never been as honored as their counterparts what they have done. rifices of the gallant Americans who who served in World War II, just a few years b 1530 served in the armed forces during the before. That's why it means so much to me Korean War. that we are now taking this opportunityÐfifty It has been 50 years but we have a Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 years laterÐto say thank you to everyone who long way to go, and I thank the gen- minute to the gentleman from Ne- did their part, to protect and promote democ- tleman for giving me this opportunity to pay tribute to so many friends and braska (Mr. BARRETT). racy. Freedom is not free, but protecting free- comrades that are no longer with us Mr. BARRETT of Nebraska. Mr. dom is among the most honorable calls one today. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for can answer. yielding me the time. I rise in very Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- self such time as I may consume. strong support of this resolution, minutes to the gentleman from New Mr. Speaker, I associate myself with which honors the 1.7 million Americans York (Mr. RANGEL) who saw and was the comments of the gentleman from who served our country so coura- part of the conflict, former staff ser- New York (Mr. RANGEL) and for that geously in the Korean theater. It is geant in the United States Army, now reason, I would say to the gentleman often called the forgotten war, but be- a distinguished and highly regarded from New York (Mr. RANGEL), I, by way cause of the long-term impact it has Member of this Congress. of opening, shared also a soldier’s story Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank had on the world, this war and its vet- of Bill Green from White County, Indi- the gentleman for giving me this op- erans certainly should be anything but ana, who is part of Task Force Smith portunity. I guess it was in June of 1950 forgotten. and those of us today, while I am the The Department of Defense is start- when I was with the 2nd Infantry Divi- son of a Korean War veteran, having ing a commemoration period lasting sion at Fort Lewis, Washington, when served in the Gulf War, today now until 2003 to honor the many veterans we heard that there was a police action being on the Committee on Armed who served in this war. National and in Korea. In July and August of that Services, on the committee we use the international events are planned and year, we were sent to Korea in a troop example that those who lived with an education program is under way to ship. Most of us were 19, 20 years old, Task Force Smith, that never again encourage study of the Korean War in and we were the first troops, American will we place our men and women into high school history programs. I urge troops, from the States to go into harm’s way whereby they are not all Americans to take time to honor Korea. trained properly or do not have the these veterans and reflect on the sac- The 24th and 25th Divisions having adequate resources to do the job. So we rifices that they made for this country. left from Japan going there had been never want what the gentleman experi- I served in the Navy during the Ko- pushed from the 38th Parallel to the enced ever have to happen again to our rean War, but I spent the war years Pusan Perimeter. We landed and had forces. stateside. Even though I was never in substantial casualties but managed to Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the theater, I still think of the Korean War get close to the 38th Parallel. General gentleman from Texas (Mr. SAM JOHN- as the war of my generation. There MacArthur had the Inchon landing and SON). were 5.7 million of us who served world- then we moved swiftly north to the (Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas asked and wide during the Korean war. Unfortu- Yalu river which separated North was given permission to revise and ex- nately, the veterans of that war have Korea from Manchuria, and the entire tend his remarks.) never been as honored as their counter- 8th Army and the 2nd Infantry Divi- Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. parts who served in World War II just a sion, of which I was a member, were Speaker, I thank the gentleman from few years before. That is why it means there waiting to go home in September New York (Mr. RANGEL) for his re- so much to me that we are now taking of 1950. marks. this opportunity 50 years later to honor It was on or about this time that the Mr. Speaker, some people know I these people. Commander in Chief, Harry Truman, served in Vietnam and was a POW I rise today in strong support of this resolu- had a dispute with General MacArthur there, but I think there are not too tion which honors the 1.7 million Americans and General MacArthur left and dealt many who know that I also flew in who served our country so courageously in with the President of the United Korea 62 combat missions, and we are the Korean theater. The Korean War is often States. During this time, the Peoples’ here because the Korean War is re- called the forgotten war, but because of the Volunteer Army completely sur- ferred to as the forgotten war, but we long-term impact it's had on the world, this rounded the entire 8th Army, and on have not forgotten it. war and its veterans should be anything but November 30, 1950, a massacre occurred Frankly, I was lucky enough to fly forgotten. of the 2nd Infantry Division and many with Johnny Glenn and Buzz Aldrin in The Korean War changed the way wars of the supporting battalions that were the same outfit, and I remember one were fought in a nuclear age, and marked the there. day we went out on the revetments and beginning of the Cold War. Our involvement in In June, I will be taking some of watched Ted Williams land a shot-up the Korean War serves as a poignant re- those veterans back to South Korea, airplane. He sacrificed his career to minder of the power of American efforts and we are attempting to revisit some fight for America in that war. against communist aggression. Since then, of the battle sites in North Korea. It I think oftentimes we forget there we've made a forty year investment in South was strange that people found it so are 8,100 MIA still over there, that we Korea, toward peace and stability in the re- easy to forget the tens of thousands of are still searching for their remains. gion. soldiers that responded to the United We have not given up. The Department of Defense is starting a Nations and responded to President I also have a lot of friends from Aus- commemoration period lasting until 2003, to Truman as nations of the world got to- tralia, South Africa, England, and honor the many veterans who served in this gether to stop Communism. But I do other countries. That was one of those war. National and international events are not think that this is unusual to see wars where one made friends from all planned, and an education program is under- our young people doing this type of over the world. way to encourage study of the Korean War in thing. This resolution shows our strong sup- high school history programs. I urge all Ameri- And so whether it is World War I or port for all of those who fought and the cans to take time to honor these veterans, and II or whether it is the Korean War or many who died. Today there are mil- reflect on the sacrifices they made for our the Vietnam War, I really think we lions of Korean War veterans who still country. ought to pay more attention to those remember the horrors of their experi- I served in the Navy during the Korean War, people who take time out from their ences but would gladly fight again if but I spent the war years stateside. Even families, who put their lives on the line this country called. They are individ- though I was never in theater, I still think of and many times are captured and give uals of honor and integrity, and they

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 05:17 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K08MR7.068 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 March 8, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H731 deserve to be recognized for their sac- about funding things in this institution There are 70,000 South Dakota vet- rifices to this country, including the of ours, that we take the opportunity erans, roughly one-tenth of the entire gentleman from New York (Mr. RAN- to make sure that this forgotten war is population of our State. 13,200 of those GEL). not forgotten; that all of our veterans veterans are Korean War Veterans, I salute them. Our Korean War era are not forgotten. We take the oppor- which is about 20 percent. Veterans have never forgotten Amer- tunity to fight for every single penny The Korean War is often referred to ica; and we are here to say today, we we can for our veterans who have as the forgotten war. This joint resolu- will never forget them. God bless served this country. tion will help ensure that those who America. So this resolution, Mr. Speaker, is served and fought to preserve democ- Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield absolutely the right thing to do, to ask racy and freedom in the Korean Penin- myself such time as I may consume. our members to continue in that vein, sula are never forgotten. This historic Mr. Speaker, as I was growing up in to fight with us for proper funding. event is a good opportunity to pay trib- my hometown of Lexington, Missouri, I Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ute to our Nation’s veterans and to en- built model airplanes with a young minute to the gentleman from Kansas sure they receive the care and treat- man by the name of Vance Frick, who (Mr. MORAN). ment they have earned in return for I learned just a few days ago passed (Mr. MORAN of Kansas asked and their service. away, a distinguished lawyer in the was given permission to revise and ex- Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield State of Missouri. tend his remarks.) back the balance of my time. Vance Frick was in the Air Force of Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- the United States, was shot down, held I am honored to be here today as a self such time as I may consume. captive for a long period of time in Member of the House Committee on Mr. Speaker, H.J. Res. 86 sets the North Korea and fortunately was able Veterans’ Affairs, and I am honored to record straight. Never should our cou- to return to his civilian life. be a sponsor of this resolution. House rageous veterans, whether it is Bill I have another friend that I would Joint Resolution 86 calls upon the peo- Green of White County, Indiana or my like to mention because this resolution ple of the United States to observe the father, Dr. John Buyer, or the millions really is very personal to me, the gen- 50th anniversary of the Korean War who served in the Korean War ever, tleman who retired not long ago as a with appropriate ceremonies and ac- ever, ever doubt that this Nation un- major general in the United States tivities. I am pleased to note that in derstands and appreciates their sac- Army Reserve. His name is Robert Kansas we are going to do that, and I rifices and their contribution to free- Shirkey of Kansas City, a well-known encourage all citizens of my State to dom that we enjoy, not only in our Na- trial lawyer there. If one would have look for other opportunities to say tion but around the world. We must seen him in his uniform before he re- thank you to the veterans of the Ko- never allow a veteran who fought for tired from the Army Reserve, they rean War. this Nation or a family who lost a would have seen he wore a combat in- On July 25, 2000, the 50th anniversary loved one by either death or is missing fantry badge with a star on top. The of the beginning of the Korean War, in in action to ever say that their war was star indicated that he not only saw Salina, Kansas, a Korean War Veterans a forgotten war. combat as an infantryman in one but Planning Commission is planning a pa- Mr. Speaker, I commend the gen- two wars. He did yeoman’s work in the rade and other festivities to acknowl- tleman from Illinois (Mr. EWING) for Second World War in the Pacific in the edge the service to our country of our bringing this resolution to the atten- Philippines as a member of the Alamo Korean War veterans. tion of the House and to the country. I Scouts and was called upon again as a On May 29, Memorial Day, I am plan- urge my colleagues to send a message young officer to fight again in Korea; ning a ceremony in Abilene, Kansas, at that the people who fought in Korea which he did. the Eisenhower Center to honor the will not be forgotten and to vote in So it is with the Robert Shirkeys of Korean War veterans of the First Dis- favor of adoption of the resolution. America that that war was prosecuted, trict. I look forward to seeing them I thank the ranking member, the that freedom came to pass in South and their families there and we will gentleman from Missouri (Mr. SKEL- Korea, that the resolve of America be- pay tribute to their service to our TON), for his words in support of this came known, and that America was country. resolution and for his contribution to able to say we are the bastion of free- Eisenhower Center is an appropriate the House. dom for this globe. place for this ceremony as President Mr. YOUNG of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Eisenhower played a significant role. A in strong support of House Joint Resolution gentleman from Indiana (Mr. BUYER). year after he became President, Eisen- 86, legislation I am an original cosponsor of to Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank hower obtained the truce. So today I recognize the 50th anniversary of the Korean the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. ask that we all join in supporting this War. SKELTON) for yielding this time. resolution and that Kansans and all It was on June 25, 1950 that Communist Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Americans recognize the important North Korean forces crossed the 38th Parallel gentleman from New York (Mr. QUINN). role these veterans played. and invaded South Korea. Two days later, on Mr. QUINN. Mr. Speaker, I would Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 June 27, 1950, President Harry S. Truman like to thank the gentleman from Mis- minute to the gentleman from South called on American military forces to intervene souri (Mr. SKELTON) for yielding time Dakota (Mr. THUNE). and protect South Korea's democratically to our side. Mr. THUNE. Mr. Speaker, the year elected government and the freedom of the Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong 2000 does recognize the 50th anniver- South Korea's democratically elected govern- support of the resolution. Certainly as sary of the Korean War, and this joint ment and the freedom of the South Korean we are hearing from other speakers on resolution recognizes the important people. Over the next three years, 5,720,000 both sides of the aisle, I join in that anniversary and sacrifices of all Mem- Americans would respond to the call to serv- support. However, Mr. Speaker, I would bers of the armed services who served ice. like to just put a different angle on in that conflict. After three years of battle, the fighting came this for all of our Members who are lis- This summer, Communist North Ko- to an end on July 27, 1953. The American tening and will come over shortly to rean forces, fifty years ago, invaded casualties were high. More than 54,000 paid vote. As the chairman of the Sub- across the 38th Parallel and invaded the ultimate price in the defense of freedom, committee on Benefits of our Com- South Korea. Two days later on June another 92,000 suffered casualties, and 8,176 mittee on Veterans’ Affairs, we are al- 27, 1950, President Harry Truman called soldiers never returned home and are listed as ways talking about forgotten veterans, on the American forces to intervene; missing in action. and we have heard this war be referred and over the next 3 years, over 5 mil- Mr. Speaker, the Korean War is often re- to as the forgotten war. lion Americans served. 54,000 of them ferred to as the forgotten war. Tell that to the I would like to suggest to all of our died in the conflict, and when the call families of the more than 158,000 Americans Members that when we have to fight to duty came, South Dakotans were who died, were wounded, or remain missing in budget numbers, when we have to talk there to answer the call. action in Korea. Tell that to the People of

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 03:58 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00083 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K08MR7.070 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 H732 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 8, 2000 South Korea who were able to repel the on- one of the great stains on humanity's soul. I represent a Congressional district in Flor- slaught of Communism and remain free. Our Communism was responsible for more raw ida where many Veterans have chosen to re- nation and the entire world owe a debt of grat- bloodshed, misery, and horror than any other tire. Many of these Veterans served in the Ko- itude to the millions of Americans, Allied and single idea in the history of mankind. rean War. When I ask them about their time South Korean troops that defended a free na- The Korean War has many elements and in the service, they tell me, ``Congressman, we tion. It is fitting that today our nation pays trib- characteristic that are unique to this struggle just do not want to be forgotten.'' ute to veterans of the forgotten war and prom- for freedom. For instance, the dangers from And so, Mr. Speaker, it gives me great ises that they will never be forgotten. enemy bullets and bayonets was compounded pleasure to rise today and say once again, This resolution expresses the appreciation by the extreme weather conditions of the Ko- ``Thank You'' to those courageous Americans and gratitude of this Congress and the Amer- rean peninsula. In several battles of the Ko- who fought to protect our freedom. As the Ko- ican people for those who served in uniform rean War, not only were American troops rean War Veterans Memorial here in Wash- during the Korean War. It honors the memory forced to fend off enemy fire in difficult terrain, ington, DC expressly reads: ``Freedom is not of those who died, were wounded, or never but they had to do it sub-zero temperatures. Free.'' returned home. And it calls upon the President Veterans lost limbs and fingers to frostbite. As we commemorate the 50th Anniversary and communities throughout our nation to ob- Others died outright from exposure. Veterans of the Korean War, this year, we must not for- serve the anniversary of this conflict with all will tell you that nothing saps morale faster get to thank those selfless Veterans of the Ko- the appropriate and just-deserved ceremonies than being freezing cold. Yet for many years rean War. and activities. thereafter, these veterans received no dis- Thank you, Mr. EWING for drafting this legis- Mr. Speaker, this victory over the forces of ability rating from the VA that recognized their lation. evil served as a stepping stone to the ultimate exposure to these harsh conditions. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, this year demise of communism almost 40 years later, During the 105th Congress I introduced leg- marks the 50th Anniversary of the Korean when President Reagan uttered those now fa- islation to create a presumptive disability for War. It is often called ``the forgotten war,'' but mous words, ``Mr. Gorbechev, tear down this veterans with cold weather injury, to help for the men and women who served there and wall.'' Our nation has taken great pride in hon- those veterans of the Korean War and other for the families of those who did not return, oring its commitment to provide the best in conflicts receive the treatment and benefits the Korean war will never be forgotten. Only 5 years had passed since the end of medical care, compensation, and services to they need and deserve. In response to the bill, World War II when another international con- those who have fought to preserve freedom the Department of Veterans' Affairs changed flict erupted. On June 25, 1950, the com- throughout the world. At a time when Amer- its regulations to make them more friendly to munist forces of North Korea crossed the 38th ican servicemen have taken up humanitarian veterans who suffered from cold weather inju- ries. Those whose sacrifices were forgotten Parallel and invaded South Korea. The Amer- causes half-way around the globe, it is essen- ican response was almost immediate. Two tial that Congress continues to send a strong were finally being recognized, even if this rec- ognition was long overdue. days later, President Harry Truman called signal that our nation will make good on its upon America's military to intervene, and the promises to all veterans. It is my hope that in One last point. I think it is particularly appro- priate that on the 50th anniversary of the Ko- United States led a United Nations force to the this 50th anniversary year of the Korean War, rean War, that we remember the painful les- Asian peninsula. every American school child will learn of the sons of this conflict. There is a lot of feeling Over the next 3 years, over 5 million Amer- sacrifices and victories of so many coura- among historians that Secretary of State Dean ican men and women answered the call to geous Americans. We owe our Korean vet- Acheson's failure in January 1950 to clearly duty, eventually defeating communism's attack erans nothing less. delineate South Korea as being within the on South Korea. Over 92,000 of these brave Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I Americans would be wounded during the con- rise in strong support of House Joint Resolu- U.S. defense perimeter in the Pacific lured the Communist Chinese and North Koreans into flict. Approximately 8,100 would become miss- tion 86, which recognizes the 50th anniversary believing the U.S. would not respond to an in- ing in action or prisoners of war. By the time of the Korean War. I thank my colleague Con- vasion. 50 years later, I fear our nation is dan- the fighting ended, 54,260 Americans would gressman TOM EWING for introducing this leg- gerously close to making the same mistake on have paid the ultimate sacrificeÐgiving their islation and for helping to bring it to the House the issue of Taiwan. If our nation fails to make lives in the defense of freedom. floor today. it clear to the same Communist Chinese lead- While communism's defeat would come al- The resolution seeks to end the Korean most 40 years after our victory in the Korean War's unfortunate status as the ``Forgotten ership that the United States will respond with decisive military force to any attempt by the War, the significance of what our soldiers won War.'' We must never, ever forget the more People's Republic of China to invade Taiwan, there cannot be understated. Our Korean War than 90,000 veterans who were wounded in Korean War veterans who went over at age veterans must never be forgotten. As a Ko- combat between 1950±1953. We must never, 25 may be in the uniquely painful position of rean War era veteran, I salute these brave ever forget the 54,000 who died in a just and watching their 25 year-old grandchildren pay men and women. righteous cause. We must never, ever forget the price for appeasement once again. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the more than 8,000 men who are still unac- So, I want to thank Congressman EWING H.J. Res. 86 and urge my colleagues to sup- counted forÐmissing in action. We must also again for introducing this resolution, and espe- port this important resolution. never forget the immense sacrifices of our al- cially thank Korean War veterans for their he- Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in liesÐparticularly the South Korean people roic sacrifices. honor of the men and women who served at themselves. They, too, suffered terribly from Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise a time in history when a war weary world the North's invasion. today with my colleagues to commemorate longed for the quiet of peace. The resolution we have before us today is those heroic Americans who served in the Ko- The dedication to duty by our service men a painful, but powerful reminder of the im- rean WarÐsome of whom serve in this and women during the Korean war is a testa- mense sacrifices made by the 5.72 million House. ment to the strength of our Nation's ideals and Americans who bravely responded to the call Mr. Speaker, like my colleagues, it bothers principles of democracy. It is right and fitting of duty. We are all personally grateful for their me that this War is called the ``Forgotten that during the 50th Anniversary of that some- service and their many sacrifices. Ensuring War.'' The brave men and women who sac- times forgotten war, we in Congress and the that the 50th anniversary Korean War is ap- rificed their lives fighting the iron fist of com- Nation, honor the service of Americans who propriately recognized is the least we can do munism and defending freedom shall not be helped defend the rights and freedoms of the to honor these brave Americans. forgotten. people of the Republic of Korea. Beyond recognizing the sacrifices made in I will never forget the 5 million, seven hun- We cannot forget and should not forget the blood, sweat and tears, we must also remem- dred thousand service men and women who countless sacrifices and hardships that these ber how pivotal the Korean War was to halting heeded the call to serve America and protect brave men and women endured at the outset the spread of Communism worldwide. The the World from Communism's attack on South of this war. We cannot forget the free nations sacrifices made by American soldiers on bat- Korea. of the world that banded together to fight the tlefields and mountains of the Korean penin- Mr. Speaker, the reported 33,665 battle tide of aggression along the 38th parallel. We sula helped make the containment of Com- deaths, or the 8,176 soldiers listed as ``Miss- cannot forget the more than 36,000 American munism, and its eventual demise, a reality ing in Action'' or ``Prisoners of War'' can never lives lost in the defense of democracy and some four decades later. Reflecting on the be forgotten. These heroes made the ultimate freedom. We cannot and should not forget the conflicts of the 20th Century, Communism sacrifice, for which our nation is eternally hundreds and thousands of Korean War vet- along with Nazism will certainly go down as grateful. erans whom we honor today on this House

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 03:58 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00084 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A08MR7.172 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 March 8, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H733 floor, who still suffer the scars and pains of my home state of New Jersey who are push- Mrs. CLAYTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this conflict. ing ahead plans to construct a memorial to our strong support of House Joint Resolution 86. At a time in history where we see American Korean War Veterans. In fact, next week, on In the year 2000 we will observe the 50th service man and women deployed throughout March 14, veterans from across the state will anniversary of the Korean War. I think it is ap- the world, we cannot forget the men and gather in Atlantic City for the groundbreaking propriate that we pause to look back and re- women who went before them, who shoul- of this memorial. It may seem odd to place a flect on the contributions and the sacrifices of dered the burden of democracy and raised the monument to our nation's warriors on the all the members of the Armed Forces who torch of freedom for those who could not carry busy, bustling Atlantic City boardwalk, but per- served in the Korean War. Approximately 5 it by themselves. haps this central, well-travelled location will million, 720,000 service members, including Mr. Speaker, this Congress will not forget, provide my state's forgotten heroes with some my husband served in the Korean War which nor will future generations of Americans who well-deserved, if belated, recognition. began on June 25, 1950 and ended on July owe their liberty to these dedicated men and I urge all my colleagues today to support 27, 1953. women who served us during the Korean War. H.J. Res. 86 and honor the legacy of the The majority of Americans living today were I am proud to support this legislation and urge aging warriors who answered our nation's call born after the Korean War ended or are too my colleagues to continue to work on behalf of to serve in Korea. These are the men and young to remember anything about the Korea all our Nation's veterans that we may never women who, as Korean War veteran and Era. Perhaps that is one reason the Korean forget to whom we owe our freedom. former FBI Director William Sessions ably War is often referred to as the ``Forgotten Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I am noted, ``suffered greatly and by their heroism War.'' The purpose of this joint resolution on proud to rise today as a cosponsor of H.J. in a thousand forgotten battles they added a the Floor of the House today is to ensure that Res. 86, which recognizes and honors the luster to the codes we hold most dear: ``duty, those who served, fought and died in Korea 50th Anniversary of the Korean War. It is high honor, country, fidelity, bravery, integrity.'' are never again forgotten. time that we stand up and recognize the vet- Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in In 1953, the Internet did not exist and in fact erans who fought in this ``Forgotten War,'' both support of H.J. Res. 86, recognizing the 50th many homes had not yet acquired the era's in the Korean Theater and on the homefront. anniversary of the Korean War and honoring latest technologyÐwhich was televisionÐin These men and women have no ``Saving the dedication of American soldiers who black and white! Private Ryan'' to stand as a testament to their served in this conflict. However, technological innovations made heroism or to record their contribution to our On August 14, 1945 an agreement was during the Korean War became part of the de- security and our freedom. They have no signed which divided Korea at the 38th par- velopment of the U.S. armed services into the spokesman on the national level to bring at- allel. The northern part of the country was fine tuned machine it is today. It was in Korea tention to their attention to their sacrifices, like transferred to Soviet control, while the south- that the U.S. began to learn that science and ern portion was placed under control of the Senators Dole and MCCAIN have done for technology, not just manpower, was the key to World War II and Vietnam. They are, however, United States. Five years later, on June 25, winning conflicts. no less deserving of our thanks and our grati- 1950, in the early morning hours, the North Emphasis was given to protecting the com- tude. Korean People's Army invaded South Korea bat soldier on the ground, and individual As it reads on the side of the Korean War with seven assault infantry divisions, a tank weapons to stop heavy armor were devel- Memorial, ``Freedom is not free.'' And no one brigade, and two independent infantry regi- oped. knows that better than the men and women ments. The helicopter became a tool to rescue Despite a prompt response by the United called upon to serve after the Communist downed airmen or to transport wounded sol- Nations Security Council calling for an end of forces invaded South Korea early on the diers to newly created Mobile Army Surgical aggression from North Korea. The fighting es- morning on June 25, 1950. Hospital (MASH) units, which moved with the calated. Five days later on June 30th, 1950, In the shadow of a great war and a clear- troops. Plasma, the clear, yellowish portion of the fate of American involvement in the Ko- cut victory, at the start of a period of amazing rean aggression was sealed. On that day, blood, was used in war for the first time to prosperity at home, America's sons and president Truman ordered U.S. ground forces save lives. daughters went to serve half a world away. Korea was the first integrated war for the into Korea and authorized the bombing of They ``answered a call to defend a country North Korea by the U.S. Air Force. United States. For the first time in U.S. history, they never knew and a people they never Three years later, 33,629 Americans were black Americans fought alongside white Amer- met.'' They did so bravely, under adverse con- dead, 103,248 were wounded, 3,746 were icans. ditions, in a conflict that lasted far longer than captured and repatriated, and 8,142 were still Public support for the Korean War, called a most people predicted. missing in action. On July 27, 1953, the ``police action'' by President Truman in order Over 19,000 Americans were killed in action cease-fire was signed by Lieutenant General to send troops without a declaration of war, in Korea. Nearly 800 of those who died in the Nam II and Lieutenant General William K. Har- was never equivalent to World War II. war called New Jersey home, including over rison at 10:00 am at Panmunjom. The Korean Men and women went to fight the war, re- 30 from Morris County. Countless more of war had ended, but Americans had paid a ceived the support of their families, but did not New Jersey's sons and daughters were heavy price to preserve freedom. experience the triumphal welcome home of among the nearly 1.5 million who served in As an American and a patriot, I believe we World War II veterans. They came home the Korean Theater during the war, and mil- have an obligation to remember and honor our quietly, got jobs, and America forgot them. lions more who served on the homefront. nation's veterans. They fought to maintain and Tainted by the fact that a few American pris- There is one veteran who returned to New preserve our nation's pride and beliefs. What oners of war had collaborated with the com- Jersey that I want to take a moment to honor kind of men and women are these that we munists and 21 had refused to return home, named Joe Klapper. Joe was a tank com- honor for their heroism and selfless sacrifice in the American people questioned the integrity mander during the war, and took part in the Korea? They are Americans from all walks of of American troops. This would become Amer- battle on Heartbreak Ridge. Joe was awarded life; ordinary people like our mothers and fa- ica's first ``unpopular'' war. the Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge and thers, aunts and uncles. Americans who were In the late spring of 1953, after two years of the Legion of Honor as a result of his service inspired by the cause to defend our country, to stalemate and the failure of the last Chinese in Korea, and was fortunate to return home protect and preserve our freedom. offensive, an armistice was signed. The artil- from the war to start a family. Joe was a ``vet- American troops, time and again, have paid lery fell silent, the machine guns and rifles erans veteran,'' who worked tirelessly on be- the supreme sacrifice for our nation's freedom. grew quiet. On July 27, 1953, the fighting had half of his colleagues from Korea, and those Many people refer to the Korean War as the ended. who served during other wars as well. Sadly, forgotten war. Thirty-three thousand American But many Americans have somehow forgot- Joe passed away last September. Had Joe soldiers perished in this ``Forgotten War''. We ten this terrible conflict. How can it be that a been with us today, he would have been must never forget the ultimate sacrifice these war that cost the lives of so many Americans pleased to know that he and his fellow Korean brave men and women offered for the sake of and wounded twice as many more, and also War Veterans were finally getting some of the freedom and democracy. took the lives of millions of Koreans and Chi- recognition they so bravely earned, and so Mr. Speaker, as the son of a veteran, I am nese, could be so overlooked by history? rightly deserve. proud to join my fellow members in acknowl- For many Korean War veterans, the war But we must not let today be the only day edging the anniversary of the Korean War and has remained clear in their memories. Their we honor Joe and those who served with him saluting the hundreds of thousands of service- sacrifices are as real today as they were 50 in the war. I commend the many veterans in men who answered to the call of duty. years ago.

VerDate 07-MAR-2000 05:17 Mar 09, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00085 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A08MR7.175 pfrm01 PsN: H08PT1 H734 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 8, 2000 I am proud to be one of the 210 Members Chair’s prior announcement, further Fossella Lewis (GA) Roukema Fowler Lewis (KY) Royce who have cosponsored this resolution to pay proceedings on this motion will be Frank (MA) Linder Ryan (WI) tribute to the service members of the Korean postponed. Franks (NJ) Lipinski Ryun (KS) War. We commend their valor, their selfless f Frelinghuysen LoBiondo Sabo sacrifice and their love of country. Frost Lofgren Salmon ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Gallegly Lowey Sanchez Mr. Speaker, I urge all our colleagues to Ganske Lucas (KY) Sandlin support this resolution. PRO TEMPORE Gejdenson Lucas (OK) Sanford Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Gekas Luther Sawyer with my colleague from Illinois, Congressman Gephardt Maloney (CT) Schakowsky ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair Gibbons Maloney (NY) Scott TOM EWING, as on original cosponsor of H.J. will now put the question on each mo- Gilchrest Manzullo Sensenbrenner Res. 86, a joint resolution which recognizes tion to suspend the rules on which fur- Gillmor Markey Serrano the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War. We Gilman Mascara Sessions ther proceedings were postponed ear- Gonzalez Matsui Shadegg live in peace today, and we owe our freedom lier today in the order in which that Goode McCarthy (MO) Shaw as much to those who risked or sacrificed their motion was entertained. Goodlatte McCarthy (NY) Shays lives in Korea as we do to the other brave Votes will be taken in the following Goodling McCollum Sherman men and women who have defended this Na- Gordon McCrery Shimkus order: Goss McDermott Shows tion in the past century. Senate Concurrent Resolution 91, by Graham McGovern Shuster The bitter war in Korea was one of the de- the yeas and nays; and Green (TX) McHugh Simpson fining conflicts of the 20th Century. Communist Green (WI) McInnis Sisisky House Joint Resolution 86, by the Greenwood McIntosh Skeen North Korea initiated the conflict on June 25, yeas and nays. Gutierrez McIntyre Skelton 1950 when it invaded South Korea with ap- The Chair will reduce to 5 minutes Gutknecht McKinney Slaughter proximately 135,000 troops. President Harry the time for any electronic vote after Hall (OH) McNulty Smith (MI) S. Truman and the United Nations determined Hall (TX) Meehan Smith (NJ) the first such vote in this series. Hansen Meek (FL) Smith (TX) that this was an act of naked aggression that f Hastings (FL) Meeks (NY) Smith (WA) could not stand and committed ground, air and Hastings (WA) Menendez Snyder naval forces. Some 5,720,000 Americans CONGRATULATING LITHUANIA ON Hayes Metcalf Spratt Hayworth Mica Stabenow served in the Armed Forces during the Korean THE TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF Hefley Miller (FL) Stark War. ITS INDEPENDENCE Herger Miller, Gary Stearns When it was over, the world was drawn up Hill (IN) Minge Stenholm The SPEAKER pro tempore. The into two camps that nobody could envision Hill (MT) Mink Strickland pending business is the question of sus- Hilleary Moakley Stump ever changing. Korea was the initial confronta- pending the rules and concurring in the Hilliard Mollohan Stupak tion of the nuclear age, a time President John Hinchey Moore Sununu Senate concurrent resolution, S. Con. F. Kennedy once described as ``the hour of Hobson Moran (KS) Sweeney Res. 91. Hoeffel Moran (VA) Talent maximum peril.'' Hoekstra Morella Tancredo There was a time when people called Korea The Clerk read the title of the Senate concurrent resolution. Holden Murtha Tanner ``the Forgotten War.'' Korean War veterans Holt Myrick Tauscher never felt they were accorded the respect and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Hooley Nadler Tauzin Taylor (MS) thanks of a grateful National in fair measure. question is on the motion offered by Horn Neal the gentleman from New York (Mr. Hostettler Nethercutt Taylor (NC) Some 4.1 million Korean War veterans are Houghton Ney Terry GILMAN) that the House suspend the alive today. They returned home with the Hoyer Northup Thomas same kinds of injuries and needs as veterans rules and concur in the Senate concur- Hulshof Nussle Thompson (CA) Hunter Oberstar Thompson (MS) of any major war. And make no mistake about rent resolution, S. Con. Res. 91, on which the yeas and nays are ordered. Hutchinson Obey Thornberry itÐKorea was a major war. Hyde Olver Thune The decisive struggles of the past century The vote was taken by electronic de- Inslee Ortiz Thurman were the wars against totalitarianism. The vice, and there were—yeas 384, nays 0, Isakson Ose Tiahrt not voting 50, as follows: Istook Owens Tierney World War II generation faced the Axis powers Jackson (IL) Oxley Toomey with distinction and valor. Those who served [Roll No. 32] Jackson-Lee Packard Towns in KoreaÐand those who bolstered our de- YEAS—384 (TX) Pallone Traficant Jefferson Pastor Turner fenses around the globe during the Korean Abercrombie Bonior Crowley Jenkins Paul Udall (CO) WarÐfaced the forces of Stalinism with honor Ackerman Borski Cubin John Pease Udall (NM) and great courage. That same honor and Aderholt Boswell Cummings Johnson (CT) Pelosi Upton Allen Boucher Danner Johnson, E. B. Peterson (MN) Visclosky courage were displayed in a long series of Andrews Boyd Davis (FL) Johnson, Sam Peterson (PA) Vitter wars and struggles that led to the fall of the Archer Brady (PA) Davis (VA) Jones (NC) Petri Walden Soviet empire. Armey Brady (TX) Deal Kanjorski Phelps Walsh Baca Brown (FL) DeGette For those of us in the Vietnam generation, Kaptur Pickering Wamp Bachus Bryant Delahunt Kasich Pickett Watkins the Korean War was never ``the Forgotten Baird Burr DeLauro Kelly Pitts Watt (NC) War.'' It was part of our youth. I join my col- Baker Burton DeLay Kennedy Pombo Watts (OK) leagues in honoring these gallant men and Baldacci Buyer DeMint Kildee Pomeroy Waxman Baldwin Callahan Deutsch Kilpatrick Porter Weiner women. Ballenger Camp Diaz-Balart Kind (WI) Portman Weldon (FL) I am honored to cosponsor this bipartisan Barcia Canady Dickey King (NY) Price (NC) Weldon (PA) joint resolution, which recognizes the 50th An- Barr Cannon Dicks Kingston Pryce (OH) Weller Barrett (NE) Capuano Dingell niversary of the Korean War and honors the Kleczka Quinn Wexler Barrett (WI) Cardin Dixon Knollenberg Rahall Weygand sacrifice of those who served. Once again, I Bartlett Carson Doggett Kolbe Ramstad Whitfield take this opportunity to say ``Thank you.'' Barton Castle Doolittle LaFalce Regula Wicker Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Bass Chabot Doyle LaHood Reyes Wilson Bateman Chambliss Dreier back the balance of my time. Lampson Reynolds Wise Becerra Chenoweth-Hage Duncan Largent Riley Wolf The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Bentsen Clay Edwards Latham Rivers Wu OSE). The question is on the motion of- Bereuter Clayton Ehlers Lazio Rodriguez Wynn fered by the gentleman from Indiana Berkley Clement Ehrlich Leach Roemer Young (AK) Berman Clyburn Emerson Lee Rogers Young (FL) (Mr. BUYER) that the House suspend Berry Coble Engel Levin Ros-Lehtinen the rules and pass the joint resolution, Biggert Coburn English Lewis (CA) Rothman H.J. Res. 86, as amended. Bilirakis Collins Etheridge Bishop Combest Evans NOT VOTING—50 The question was taken. Blagojevich Condit Everett Mr. EWING. Mr. Speaker, on that I Bliley Conyers Ewing Bilbray Cooksey Dunn demand the yeas and nays. Blumenauer Cook Farr Bono Cox Eshoo The yeas and nays were ordered. Blunt Costello Fattah Brown (OH) Cunningham Filner Boehlert Coyne Fletcher Calvert Davis (IL) Ford The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Boehner Cramer Foley Campbell DeFazio Granger ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the Bonilla Crane Forbes Capps Dooley Hinojosa

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