H4330 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 13, 2000 Committee on Armed Services’ Sub- tions qualified him for the award. The tleman from New York (Mr. LAZIO) is committee on Military Personnel, I Army thought so much of these two recognized for 5 minutes. worked with the gentleman from New men that they named forts after them. Mr. LAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to York and former Pennsylvania Rep- Yet despite the preponderance of evi- the gentleman from Indiana. resentative Paul McHale, the Roosevelt dence and the endorsement by these Mr. BUYER. Moreover, it is my sin- family, representatives of the Theodore two Medal of Honor awardees, the War cerest hope that the award ceremony Roosevelt Association, authors and his- Department never acted upon their rec- will be conducted here in Washington torians to correct a historical over- ommendation. I believe there is cred- as befits a celebration that honors a sight. Our crusade has been to see that ible evidence that politics, not an hon- truly larger than life American. Last- then Colonel Teddy Roosevelt be est assessment of Colonel Roosevelt’s ly, I spoke with Tweed Roosevelt awarded the Medal of Honor post- valor, was the prime reason the rec- today, a direct descendant of Teddy humously for conspicuous gallantry at ommendation for the Medal of Honor Roosevelt, and I endorse the Roosevelt the Battle of San Juan Heights during was never approved. The McKinley ad- family’s desire that President Roo- the Spanish American War. ministration’s fear of a yellow fever sevelt’s Medal of Honor permanently On July 1st of 1898, Colonel Roosevelt epidemic prompted them to delay the reside next to his Nobel Peace Prize in led the First United States Volunteer troop’s return from the war, a decision the Roosevelt Room of the White Cavalry Regiment, the Rough Riders, that Roosevelt publicly criticized. House. That is the working room of the into action alongside Army regulars at Seeking to quickly defuse the issue, West Wing just off the Oval Office. I San Juan Heights outside Santiago, the McKinley administration reversed can think of no better tribute to the Cuba. During the battle, the Rough course and brought the troops home. greatness of President Roosevelt than Riders encountered a regular Army The then Secretary of War, Russell to bring together in one room the acco- unit that was reluctant to press the at- Alger, resented the public embarrass- lades that he received as both a warrior tack. Roosevelt boomed, ‘‘Step aside ment that he received as a result of the and as a peacemaker. What finer exam- and let my men through,’’ then pro- criticism from the hero of San Juan ple could we offer the leader of our Na- ceeded to lead his men through a hail Heights, Teddy Roosevelt. Lacking tion, what better inspiration for our fu- of enemy gunfire during the assault up records to substantiate why the deco- ture Presidents to strive for excellence Kettle Hill, one of two hills comprising ration was disapproved at the time, I in their quest of the greater under- San Juan Heights. His leadership was believe that Secretary Alger had the standing. Mr. Speaker, I would like to com- so compelling that many of the regular opportunity and motivation to deny mend Congress for its work to secure Army officers and men fell in line with Teddy Roosevelt the Medal of Honor by the Medal of Honor for Teddy Roo- the Rough Riders. simply just not acting on it. sevelt. We have attempted to right a Mr. Speaker, Colonel Roosevelt’s he- Mr. Speaker, the Medal of Honor is historical wrong and we have come to roic performance on that day is well this Nation’s highest military award learn more about why Theodore Roo- documented, but I believe it is enlight- for bravery in combat. Since 1863, more sevelt was one of our greatest histor- ening to review some of the historical than 3,400 extraordinary Americans ical figures. He displayed the qualities details: have been awarded the Medal of Honor of a great leader: courage, cunning, in- Number one. Roosevelt’s actions by the President in the name of the tellect, boldness and charisma all demonstrated an utter disregard for his Congress. President Theodore Roo- founded on deep moral purpose. His own safety and were consistent with sevelt’s name would be an honorable courage and the enthusiasm that his the actions of those that were awarded and noteworthy addition to this most the Medal of Honor during the Spanish courage generated motivated his hallowed of lists. His raw courage and Rough Riders on the battlefield at San American war. Of the 22 officers and the fearless, bold decisiveness that he soldiers who were awarded the Medal of Juan Heights and inspired a generation demonstrated while leading his Rough of Americans as they emerged from the Honor that day, 21 received it because Riders up Kettle Hill on horseback al- chaos of the late 19th century. they gave up cover and exposed them- tered the course of the battle, saved Mr. Clinton, we urge you to avoid selves to enemy fire. Once the order to American lives and epitomized the self- further delay and expeditiously award attack was received, Colonel Roosevelt less service of all Medal of Honor the Medal of Honor to Colonel Theo- mounted his horse and rode up and awardees. dore Roosevelt. down the ranks in full view of enemy On February 22, Secretary of Defense Mr. LAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gunners. During the final assault on William Cohen forwarded a memo- gentleman from Indiana, and I want to Kettle Hill, he remained on horseback, randum to President Clinton recom- begin by acknowledging his terrific exposing him to the withering fire of mending that Theodore Roosevelt be work in terms of bringing this issue to the enemy. If voluntary exposure to posthumously awarded the Medal of the forefront of this Congress and all of enemy fire was the criteria for award Honor. I join the gentleman from New his partnership with me in these last 3 of the Medal, then Colonel Roosevelt York (Mr. LAZIO) and former Rep- years as we have been fighting for this clearly exceeds the standard. resentative Paul McHale in com- sense of justice. People say why do we By driving his Rough Riders through mending the Department of Defense for care about giving Theodore Roosevelt the ranks of a stalled regular Army following the lead of Congress by the Congressional Medal of Honor 102 unit to pursue the attack on Kettle choosing to acknowledge President years after he earned it. I think it Hill, Colonel Roosevelt changed the Roosevelt’s heroic leadership and cour- comes down to simple justice. The fact course of the battle. This is what a age under fire during the Spanish is that Theodore Roosevelt is one of decoration for heroism is all about, the American War. He will join 109 other our greatest Americans. His face ap- raw courage to make decisions and put soldiers, sailors and Marines who were pears on Mount Rushmore. He has been your life in jeopardy to win the battle. awarded the Medal of Honor for their known as one of America’s greatest His decisive leadership in pressing the actions during that conflict. Presidents. Before that, he was a Gov- attack saved American lives and However, it troubles me that for ernor of the State of New York. He was brought the battle to a successful con- some inexplicable reason that Presi- a great conservationist and a reformer. clusion. dent Clinton has delayed acting upon b The extraordinary nature of Colonel Secretary Cohen’s recommendation. I 2340 Roosevelt’s bravery was confirmed by urge President Clinton to announce the He was the architect of the modern two Medal of Honor awardees who rec- award now. Navy, and in many ways help shape ommended him for the Medal of Honor f American foreign policy as we entered on that day: Major General William the global age. But it is for none of Shafter and Colonel Leonard Wood, AWARDING MEDAL OF HONOR TO those reasons that Theodore Roosevelt original commander of the Rough Rid- PRESIDENT THEODORE ROO- deserves the Congressional Medal of ers and later military governor of SEVELT Honor. It is for the facts that the gen- Cuba. Both men were eminently quali- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a tleman from Indiana (Mr. BUYER) has fied to judge whether Roosevelt’s ac- previous order of the House, the gen- laid out.

VerDate 01-JUN-2000 04:55 Jun 14, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00108 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13JN7.333 pfrm02 PsN: H13PT1 June 13, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4331 On that day, on July 1 of 1898, when Now is a time to correct that record San Juan Heights and in close proximity to a volunteer Lieutenant Colonel Theo- to see that justice is done and for the Camino Real, the principal route to dore Roosevelt led his men up a hill, a President Clinton to give him his due, Santiago. The assault would be made by the regular infantry under the command of Brig- strategic hill to secure that high the Congressional Medal of Honor. We adier General H.W. Lawton and supported by ground which saved many American call upon the President to do that. an artillery barrage from a battery under the lives that day, and contrary to public Mr. Speaker, I would like to include command of Captain Allyn K. Capron Sr. The belief, a popular belief the Rough Rid- in the RECORD a part of that brief, if I rest of the army would take up positions in ers, who Lieutenant Colonel led, went can, which documents the historical the jungle in front of the San Juan Heights. forward that day without their horses record. The plan was to capture El Caney and then as dismounted infantry and they faced Congressman Rick Lazio submitted the fol- directly assault the San Juan Heights. It was at this time that Roosevelt was pro- lowing argument for the Award of the Con- an enemy much better positioned than moted to full colonel and given command of gressional Medal of Honor for President the Spaniards in securing the high the Rough Riders. Several Officers had come Theodore Roosevelt on September 9, 1997 ground. They faced an enemy with mu- down with fever. Colonel Wood was promoted nitions and with arms far superior to THEODORE ROOSEVELT DESERVES THE MEDAL to Brigadier General and given command of that which they had, including ma- OF HONOR General Young’s brigade leading to Roo- chine guns, which were only a few INTRODUCTION sevelt’s promotion. By the end of the day, years later in World War I create such The 100th Anniversary of the Spanish- the Rough Riders were positioned near El American War has raised public interest in Pozo, a hill flanking the Camino Real and mass destruction; but even at that about seven to eight miles from Santiago. point in 1898, these guns were trained this important segment of American His- tory. The Spanish American War is for many On the morning of July 1, 1898, the army down on them. a line of demarcation signifying America’s began its attack on El Caney. The barrage Alongside Roosevelt and his Rough emergence as a world power. Inextricably en- was ineffectual and inspired return fire from Riders advanced the 9th and 10th col- twined in this coming of age on the world the Spanish. Several men were killed and ored Cavalry Regiments, the famed stage is the history and efforts of President many others wounded, including a mild Buffalo Soldiers of the Indian Wars. Theodore Roosevelt. wound to Colonel Roosevelt. General Roosevelt, as the leader of the First Volun- Shafter, who was also ill, issued orders And I will say to the gentleman from through his adjutant, Colonel McClernand Indiana (Mr. BUYER), to all of those in teer Cavalry Regiment known more com- monly as the Rough Riders, played a signifi- for the army to get into position to attack the Chamber, the Spanish bullets re- the San Juan Heights as planned without cant and heroic role in the victory in Cuba. spected neither race nor social rank. In waiting for El Caney to be captured. The This victory catapulted both Roosevelt and force deployed as directed and quickly came the end the blood was American. the United States onto the world stage and under fire from the Spanish forces en- Up the steep hill, the Rough Riders the eventual position of leadership we enjoy trenched on the sloping hills overlooking climbed facing a withering fire from today. them. The Rough Riders positioned them- the trenches blow up the steep hill, The focus here is not on Theodore Roo- selves near the San Juan River at the foot of sevelt, leader of the Rough Riders and his climbed with men from the rear ranks a hill that later became known as Kettle Hill gallant charges to secure the San Juan taken the place of the fallen, up that because of the blockhouse and sugar refining Heights. Theodore Roosevelt was unjustly steep hill they climbed led by their be- kettle found there. The regiment and the overlooked for the Congressional Medal of spectacled, mustached leader, Colonel other units it had moved to support quickly Honor. His application, when taken in the faced severe enemy artillery fire causing Roosevelt. context for awarding America’s highest mili- In the finest military tradition, many to panic. Roosevelt walked up and tary honor at that time, warranted more se- down the line of Rough Riders to ensure that Teddy Roosevelt led the way. Rather rious consideration than it was given. Many than pushing his men forward from be- they were taking cover and receiving as attribute this oversight to political squab- much protection as possible. The Rough Rid- hind, he pulled them forward from in bles of the times as well as prejudice in favor ers were taking heavy casualties as they front. By his own conspicuous courage, of the regular army regiments. The Centen- waited for orders to engage the Spanish. Roosevelt inspired his men to conquer nial of this historic effort is an appropriate After many hours of waiting and taking their fear, to climb those heights time to correct this injustice. heavy casualties, Roosevelt finally received against a hail of enemy lead. NARRATIVE the order to advance on Kettle Hill in sup- In placing themselves in dire danger, Thedore Roosevelt’s service in the Spanish port of the Regular Cavalry. The Rough Rid- Roosevelt animated his men to move American War began with an offer of a com- ers soon reached the Ninth Cavalry. The mission from Secretary of War Russell Alger Ninth’s senior officers were reluctant to ad- towards the trenches that belched the vance so Roosevelt and the Rough Riders venomous fire. By his leadership, by as Lieutenant Colonel in a regiment com- manded by Colonel Leonard Wood in April of passed them. Many junior officers and en- dint of his personal example, Roosevelt 1898 after the United States declared war on listed men of the Ninth then followed Roo- propelled his troops to capture the Spain retroactive to April 21, 1898. The Regi- sevelt and the Rough Riders up the hill. Roo- Spanish defenses. Of the 490 men who ment was designated the 1st United States sevelt was at the forefront of the charge up started to climb that hill that day, 89 Volunteer Calvary. However, they quickly the hill and through a barbed wire fence to were killed or wounded. One of those became more commonly known as the the crest of the hill all while under constant ‘‘Rough Riders.’’ The regiment was made of fire from the Spanish. After capturing Kettle wounded was Colonel Roosevelt. Hill, Roosevelt turned his attention to San And I would say to the gentleman volunteers from all walks of life and all classes of Americans. The outfit was consid- Juan Hill to the left. After viewing the ap- from Indiana (Mr. BUYER), who has proaching infantry under heavy fire from served our Nation in uniform and I ered to be unpolished and undisciplined. Much effort was required to reform the San Juan Hill, Roosevelt began an assault on have great respect and admiration for Rough Riders into a quality fighting unit. San Juan Hill from Kettle Hill. Initially, him because of that, there is no greater The Rough Riders were later sent to Tampa Roosevelt’s Rough Riders did not hear the service than I think an American can and on June 3, 1898 arrived to be joined with order, but later followed after some further render to put his life on the line and other Cavalry regiments to form a division urging from Roosevelt. In the charge, Roo- under the command of Major General Joseph sevelt personally dispatched a Spaniard with cause freedom in America’s interests. a shot from his revolver. The Regiment then This is what Colonel Roosevelt did as Wheeler. The division belonged to the 5th Corps, commanded by Major General William dug in and prepared for the siege of a volunteer. He displayed extraor- Santiago. dinary courage, and that was docu- R. Shafter, a Medal of Honor recipient and veteran of the Civil War. ARGUMENT FOR PRESENTING THE MEDAL OF mented at the time by his superiors On June 22, 1898, the Rough Riders landed HONOR TO THEODORE ROOSEVELT BASED ON and his contemporaries. So this is not in Cuba on the outskirts of Santiago after THE FIRST-HAND ACCOUNTS OF HIS PEERS something where Congress is reaching little resistance but a difficult voyage. The I. The case of Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt back and recreating history. We have a unit soon moved out in the campaign to cap- warrants reconsideration by the Secretary strong historical record. There was a ture Santiago. Soon after beginning the cam- Under the Department of Defense Manual voluminous brief that was submitted paign, the regiment encountered resistance of Military Decorations and Awards, the case by me 3 years ago with the assistance from the Spanish Army. The regiment suf- of Theodore Roosevelt clearly fits under ei- of the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. fered several casualties including eight ther section 3a or 3b of the regulations re- killed in a battle to secure a blockhouse. By garding the medal of honor. BUYER). The fact is that there is plenty June 30 the planning for the assault on 3a. The remaining bases for reconsider- of evidence, plenty of evidence that Santiago began in earnest. ation are instances in which a Service Sec- suggests that Roosevelt was denied for The battle was to begin with an assault on retary or the Secretary of Defense deter- political reason. El Cancy, a village on the outskirts of the mines that there is evidence of material

VerDate 01-JUN-2000 04:55 Jun 14, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00109 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13JN7.335 pfrm02 PsN: H13PT1 H4332 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 13, 2000 error or impropriety in the original proc- nation other than some bias against Roo- to reach the crest of the hill and his dashing essing of or decision on a recommendation sevelt dictate that this case be reviewed and example, his absolute fearlessness and gal- for award of the Medal of Honor. reconsidered at this time. The interests of lant leading rendered his conduct con- 3b. All other instances of reconsideration justice have compelled nearly 160 members spicuous and clearly distinguished above shall be limited to those in which the formal of Congress to sponsor a bill specific to this other men.’’ His actions are further elabo- recommendation was submitted within stat- case. The bill has been held up due to the rated on by then Colonel Leonard Wood, utory time limits, the recommendation was analysis by the awards branch that a formal ‘‘Colonel Roosevelt, accompanied by only lost or inadvertently not acted upon, and request for reconsideration is most appro- four or five men, led a very desperate and ex- when these facts are conclusively established priate prior to the submission of a bill by the tremely gallant charge on San Juan Hill, by the respective Service Secretary or other House of Representatives. The interests of thereby setting a splendid example to the official delegated appropriate authority. justice should also provide the impetus for troops and encouraging them to pass over The situation regarding Roosevelt is un- an official review by the Secretary. This re- open country intervening between their posi- clear. It is clear that the first application quest is in fact submitted in an effort to tion and the trenches of the enemy.’’ Wood lacked specific details. Roosevelt was then comply with the reasonable request of the continues, ‘‘the example set a most inspiring made to reapply in more detail. Several let- Department. one to the troops in that part of the line, and while it is perfectly true, that everybody fi- ters previously cited attest to his acts on the II. Standard for awarding the Medal of Honor field on July 1, 1898. nally went up the hill in good style, yet ‘‘The Medal of Honor is awarded by the there is no doubt that the magnificent exam- a. The Secretary of War’s personal bias President in the name of Congress to a per- ple set by Colonel Roosevelt had a very en- against Roosevelt prevented Roosevelt son who, while a member of the Army, dis- couraging effect and had great weight in from receiving the medal tinguishes himself or herself conspicuously bringing up the troops behind him. During It is clear that Roosevelt was not awarded by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of the assault, Colonel Roosevelt was the first the medal. Most sources attribute the failure his or her life above and beyond the call of to reach the trenches and killed one of the to award the medal to a political rift be- duty while engaged in an action against an enemy with his own hand.’’ tween Roosevelt and Secretary of War Rus- enemy of the United States; while engaged in Clearly, the act of gallantry in this case is sell Alger. The rift developed after Roosevelt military operations involving conflict with founded upon Roosevelt’s leadership. What and other officers signed what has become an opposing foreign force . . .’’ Furthermore, makes Roosevelt’s actions so deserving of know as the ‘‘round robin letter.’’ The letter ‘‘The deed performed must have been one of consideration is the context in which they was an effort to convince the President and personal bravery or self-sacrifice so con- occurred. The letter of Lawrence Keyes Secretary Alger to bring the soldiers in Cuba spicuous as to clearly distinguish the indi- points out that on the initial assault on Ket- back to the United States. Many soldiers vidual above his comrades and must have in- tle Hill, Roosevelt and the Rough Riders were suffering from Yellow Fever while in volved risk of life.’’ passed through a regular army regiment that Cuba and it was felt by the command that It is self-evident and uncontestable that appeared to be awaiting orders. This action they would fare better in the United States Theodore Roosevelt was engaged in an action is confirmed by Major M.J. Jenkins, ‘‘Held in and away from the conditions that promote against an enemy of the United States. support, he brought his regiment, at exactly Yellow Fever in Cuba. Roosevelt’s concern Therefore, the remainder of this argument the right time, not only up to the line of for his men throughout the conflict should will focus on the first hand evidence as pre- regulars, but went through them and headed, have only counted toward his gallantry and served in the National Archives, the con- on horseback, the charge on Kettle Hill; this his leadership. However, newspaper reports spicuous and gallant nature of the act, and being done on his own initiative. The from January of 1899 clearly indicate that the risk to Roosevelt’s life. Regulars as well as his own men following.’’ It is clear that many soldiers were in fact re- even at the time, many believed that the let- a. Then Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roo- luctant to make the charge despite the fact ter, which was considered embarrassing to sevelt’s acts were witnessed and attested that they were already under heavy fire and Alger, was to blame for Roosevelt’s failure to to by many receive the medal. Roosevelt himself ref- taking casualties. Roosevelt’s actions broke Source material regarding this matter can erences such a bias in a letter to General this hesitation and quite possibly saved be found in the United States Archives. Cop- Corbin, the Adjutant General at the time. A many lives. Though men died in the assault, ies of original materials are attached to this personal bias against Roosevelt would con- it appears that even more would have be- document as exhibits for the convenience of stitute an impropriety under the rules for re- come casualties if they simply remained the Department. The required letters attest- consideration. Therefore, the Secretary has where they were. Instead, the advance led by ing to the deed are also part of the exhibits. the authority to reconsider Roosevelt on this Roosevelt removed the threat from Kettle The number of letters exceed the two re- basis. Hill and provided a second avenue of attack quired personal accounts. on San Juan Hill. This served to relieve some b. A bias against the volunteer regiments may Included among the exhibits are letters pressure on those making the direct assault have prevented Roosevelt and others from from Maxwell Keyes, 1st Lieutenant and Ad- on San Juan Hill. receiving the Medal of Honor jutant U.S. Volunteers (Exhibit 1), Robert A further indicator of the severity of the A second suspected reason for not award- Howze, 1st Lieutenant, 6th U.S. Cavalry (Ex- situation at the position of the lines prior to ing the medal to Roosevelt is an inherent hibit 2), M.J. Jenkins, Major, 1st U.S. Volun- the charge is implied by the twenty Medals bias against the volunteers in this war. Only teer Cavalry (Exhibit 3), Trooper W.J. of Honor given to Infantrymen for ‘‘assisting Captain Albert Mills, Assistant Adjutant McCann, Troop B, 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry in the rescue of the wounded from in front of General U.S. Volunteers, received a Medal of (Exhibit 8), Captain C.J. Stevens, 2nd U.S. the lines and under heavy fire.’’ This is a tes- Honor and it was not given to him until well Cavalry (Exhibit 9), Colonel Leonard Wood, tament to the danger of the situation facing after most of the other that received medals Major General Joseph Wheeler, and Major the soldiers while they hesitated in their ad- for their actions in the Spanish American General William Shafter, U.S. Volunteers vance. War. Mills received the award for distin- (Exhibit 10), Major General Leonard Wood, The gallantry and wisdom of Roosevelt’s guished gallantry and bravery for encour- U.S. Volunteers (Exhibit 11) and Colonel A.L. actions are further illuminated when taken aging those near him even though he had Mills, Brigade Adjutant General and later in historical context. Since the charge was been severely wounded. While there is no di- Superintendent of the United States Mili- successful, one can only speculate as to what rect evidence of bias, an inference may be tary Academy at West Point (Exhibit 12). the consequences of inaction would have drawn by the empirical data derived from These documents should provide an ade- been. One particular historical example the document. If such an inference is drawn, quate basis for awarding the Medal of Honor comes to mind and that is the Union assault this would constitute an impropriety under to Theodore Roosevelt. The descriptions are on the heights of Fredericksburg during the the rules for reconsideration. The Secretary detailed and come from both enlisted per- Civil War. During that engagement, many would clearly have the authority to recon- sonnel and the highest of officers. A close in- Union Soldiers were killed without ever sider Roosevelt for the Medal of Honor. spection will reveal that they are both con- reaching the Confederate lines at the crest of the hill. While the magnitude of the force in c. The lack of a report on Roosevelt’s denial sistent with each other and are based on first the present case is less, the situation is or other documents relating to the denial hand knowledge of Roosevelt’s actions strongly analogous. It is fair to assume that b. Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt’s deeds were constitutes ‘‘material error’’ or ‘‘an inad- had Kettle Hill not been taken quickly, both gallant and beyond the call of duty vertent loss or failure to act upon’’ war- many would have died from the continuing ranting reconsideration by the Secretary Captain C.J. Stevens, then a 1st Lieuten- barrage from the high ground. Furthermore, The inability to recover records of the ac- ant in the 9th Cavalry, concisely describes there is evidence to suggest that the Spanish tual consideration of Roosevelt for the Medal Roosevelt’s actions as he witnessed them. ‘‘I positions were close to being reinforced of Honor warrants reconsideration at this witnessed Colonel Roosevelt, 1st Volunteer which could only have heightened the car- time. Many documents attesting to Roo- Cavalry, U.S.A., mounted, leading his regi- nage. This was prevented by Roosevelt’s sevelt’s merit have been recovered. Diligent ment in the charge on San Juan. By his gal- quick action, leadership, and his gallant ex- efforts on the part of many, including the lantry and strong personality he contributed ample. Congressional Liaison Office, have failed to most materially to the success of the charge Roosevelt’s deeds are best summarized by produce records of Roosevelt’s consideration. of the Cavalry Division up San Juan Hill. General Sumner, ‘‘Col. Roosevelt by his ex- The absence of such records and any expla- Colonel Roosevelt was among the very first ample and fearlessness inspired his men at

VerDate 01-JUN-2000 04:55 Jun 14, 2000 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00110 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13JN7.125 pfrm02 PsN: H13PT1 June 13, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4333 both Kettle Hill and the ridge known as San sevelt. Much has changed since the Spanish tleman from Washington (Mr. Juan, he led his command in person.’’ American War. The perfection and prolifera- METCALF) is recognized for 5 minutes. c. Roosevelt acted with a singular disregard tion of automatic weapons, the tank, air (Mr. METCALF addressed the House. for his own welfare power, and numerous other advances have His remarks will appear hereafter in Then Captain A.L. Mills was in a perfect led to different perceptions of risk and the Extensions of Remarks.) threat. Strategy has also changed in many position to witness Roosevelt’s actions dur- f ing the battle. He writes, ‘‘During this time, ways. However, even in a more recent con- (the assault on Kettle Hill) while under the flict, action similar to Roosevelt’s in signifi- ILLEGAL NARCOTICS AND DRUG enemies artillery fire at El Poso and while cant ways was both necessary and meri- ABUSE IN THE WAR ON DRUGS on the march from El Poso by the San Juan torious. ford to the point from which his regiment Finnis McCleery was the Platoon Sergeant The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under moved to the assault—about two miles, the for Company A, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry in the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- greater part under fire—Colonel Roosevelt May of 1968 in the Quang Tin Province of the uary 6, 1999, the gentleman from Flor- was conspicuous above any others I observed Republic of Vietnam. His force was assigned ida (Mr. MICA) is recognized for half of in his regiment in the zealous performance of to assault well entrenched North Vietnamese the time until midnight as the designee duty, in total disregard of his personal dan- ArmyRegulars on Hill 352, 17 miles west of of the majority leader. ger and in his eagerness to meet the enemy.’’ Tam Ky. McCleery led his men up the hill Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, my col- Mills goes on to describe how Roosevelt, de- and across an open area to close with the enemy when his platoon and other friendly leagues, I come to the floor tonight spite being grazed by shrapnel, continued his with just a few minutes remaining be- zealous leadership to the ultimate conclu- elements began taking heavy fire. Realizing sion of the battle with total disregard to his the damage that could be inflicted if they fore the magic hour of midnight when own safety. halted their advance or waited, McCleery the House adjourns. I know the hour is Captain Howze’s account only augments charged and captured an enemy bunker, his late and my colleagues are tired and that of Mills. ‘‘(T)he Colonel’s life was placed men then followed and he began assaulting staff is tired, but I always try on Tues- in extreme jeopardy, owing to the con- the lateral bunkers threatening the other day nights to address the House on the spicuous position he took in leading the line, forces charging the hill. Finally, after a subject of illegal narcotics and drug and being the first to reach the crest of that bloody battle, McCleery and the friendly abuse and the ravages that has placed hill, while under heavy fire of the enemy at force captured Hill 352. close range.’’ McCleery faced machine gun fire, grenades, upon our Nation. Major Jenkins also recounts the danger in- and rocket fire. Roosevelt did not face mod- We heard earlier a resolution relating volved and the conspicuousness of Roo- ern machine gun fire, grenades, or rockets. to music; and as I sat and heard the sevelt’s actions. ‘‘He was so near the en- The Spanish did have artillery and Mauser speakers talk about music and the im- trenchments on the second hill that he shot rifles. On the other hand, McCleery also had portance of music in people’s lives, I and killed with a revolver one of the enemy automatic weapons and grenades as well as a translated that also into the thought before they broke completely.’’ Jenkins then well-armed platoon to back him up. Roo- that there are 15,973 Americans who adds, ‘‘His unhesitating gallantry in taking sevelt had a revolver. Stripped down to the died as a direct result of illegal nar- the initiative against men armed with rapid bare essentials and adjusted for technology, cotics in the latest statistical year, fire guns certainly won him the highest con- McCleery’s charge was in the true spirit of sideration and admiration of all who wit- Theodore Roosevelt. 1998. None of those individuals will ever nessed his conduct throughout the day.’’ Both men, realizing the danger of holding hear music again. W.J. McCann’s letter further indicates the a position on the low ground under heavy The drug czar has told us that over gravity of the risk to Roosevelt’s own life. fire, made a gallant charge and singlehand- 52,000 people die as a result of direct ‘‘Regarding the Colonel’s action in the edly inspired their men despite an extreme and indirect causes of illegal narcotics, charge, I remember hearing his close friend, risk to their own lives. The only thing that and none of those people will hear Colonel (now General) Leonard Wood give separates these two men is the technology of music in their lives. In fact, the only him a good-natured scolding on the next day the time. Both acted with extreme bravery for his disregard for his own safety; and in lives that the parents, mothers and fa- in the true spirit of United States Army. thers and sisters and brothers will hear this respect I am confirmed by at least one Both men took action at great risk to their newspaper correspondent who wrote in sub- own lives. Both men displayed gallantry are funeral dirges and, unfortunately, stance, as I recollect it, ‘I expect to see Roo- above all else on the field. One man received that music for funerals over the vic- sevelt fall in the next battle if he takes the the Medal of Honor and the other has yet to. tims of drug abuse and misuse. That same chances.’ ’’ It is time for Theodore Roosevelt to join Ser- music is much too loud across our land III. Roosevelt’s action should be judged under geant McCleery at the top of that hill. and repeated over and over. the standards used to evaluate other Span- f It is equivalent for our young people ish American war recipients The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. to three Columbines every day across Today, there are many more awards given TERRY). Under a previous order of the this country. And the latest statistics, out for valor and gallantry of different de- and I would like to cite them, each grees. However, during the Spanish Amer- House, the gentleman from Indiana ican War, there were fewer decorations of (Mr. BURTON) is recognized for 5 min- week I come before the House to con- honor and the guidelines for their distribu- utes. firm that this situation is getting tion were also different. (Mr. BURTON of Indiana addressed worse, rather than better. The latest The bulk of the Medals of Honor awarded the House. His remarks will appear report that we have on drug use being during the Spanish American War were hereafter in the Extensions of Re- up is from USA Today, June 8, 2000, awarded for three acts. Some were awarded marks.) just a few days ago. This is an Associ- for rescuing wounded soldiers in front of the f ated Press story, and it is from the line while under fire during the battle of Centers for Disease Control and Pre- July 1st. Others were awarded for the brav- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a vention report from the Center in At- ery and coolness during the action to cut the previous order of the House, the gen- lanta. They just released this report. cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba while tleman from Washington (Mr. under heavy fire. The third broad area of rec- The story says cocaine, marijuana, and NETHERCUTT) is recognized for 5 min- ognition is for coolness and bravery of action cigarette use among high school stu- utes. in maintaining naval combat efforts. dents consistently increased during the (Mr. NETHERCUTT addressed the The lone standout is the award given to Al- 1990s according to a government sur- House. His remarks will appear here- bert L. Mills of the U.S. Volunteers for dis- vey. tinguished gallantry in encouraging those after in the Extensions of Remarks.) The report went on to say the in- near him by his bravery and coolness after f being wounded. Mills himself recognizes Roo- creases in smoking and drug use came sevelt’s similar merit in his letter to the Ad- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a despite years of government-funded jutant General recommending Roosevelt for previous order of the House, the gen- media campaigns urging teenagers to the Medal of Honor. ‘‘In moving to the as- tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DUNCAN) is stay clean and sober. The record, sault of San Juan Hill, Colonel Roosevelt recognized for 5 minutes. again, from CDC went on to say that in was most conspicuously brave, gallant and (Mr. DUNCAN addressed the House. 1991, 14.7 percent of the students sur- indifferent to his own safety. He, in the open, His remarks will appear hereafter in veyed said that they used marijuana. led his regiment; no officer could have set a the Extensions of Remarks.) This was a survey involving 15,349 stu- more striking example to his men or dis- f played greater intrepidity. dents in grade 9 through 12. That num- Historical perspective is a necessary factor The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ber steadily increased to some 26.7 per- in awarding the Medal of Honor to Roo- previous order of the House, the gen- cent in 1999, and students reporting

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