H2160 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 20, 2005 hath no man than this, that a man lay urge all Members to support this legis- Resolved, That the House of Representa- down his life for his friends.’’ lation. tives— Sergeant Byron Norwood loved his Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance (1) joins with all Americans to send best country, and we as a Nation can do of my time. wishes and prayers to the families, friends, and neighbors of the 168 people killed in the something to honor the sacrifice he The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by terrorist bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah made in saving the lives of those seven Federal Building; Marines. Today I ask my colleagues’ the gentleman from Texas (Mr. (2) thanks the thousands of first respond- support for legislation to name the MARCHANT) that the House suspend the ers, rescue workers, medical personnel, and post office in Pflugerville after Ser- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1001. volunteers from the Oklahoma City commu- geant Byron Norwood. The question was taken; and (two- nity and from communities around the Na- When I approached Bill and Janet thirds having voted in favor thereof) tion who answered the call for help that Norwood with the idea of naming the the rules were suspended and the bill April morning and in the days and weeks post office in Pflugerville after their was passed. that followed; (3) sends best wishes and thoughts to those son, they were humble; but they want- A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. injured in the bombing, and expresses grati- ed to make sure that this bill would tude for their recovery; honor not only Byron but all of our f (4) resolves to stand with all Americans to fallen heroes, and today we can honor RECOGNIZING A NATIONAL WEEK promote the goals and mission established their request. OF HOPE IN COMMEMORATION by the Oklahoma City National Memorial as In a letter sent to me by Sergeant stated in the following mission statement of OF THE 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY the memorial: ‘‘We come here to remember Norwood’s mother, Janet, they wrote a OF THE TERRORIST BOMBING IN very compelling and powerful message those who were killed, those who survived, OKLAHOMA CITY and those changed forever. May all who leave to me. This is a picture of Sergeant Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I here know the impact of violence. May this Byron Norwood and she wrote to me, move to suspend the rules and agree to memorial offer comfort, strength, peace, ‘‘Representative MCCAUL, we wanted the resolution (H. Res. 184) recognizing hope, and serenity.’’; you to know how much we have appre- (5) encourages Americans to observe a Na- a National Week of Hope in commemo- ciated your visits to our home. It was tional Week of Hope— ration of the 10-year anniversary of the a pleasure to meet you and Linda and (A) to commemorate the 10th anniversary terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City. of the Oklahoma City bombing; and to be able to share more about Byron The Clerk read as follows: with you. Knowing that you and so (B) to allow each American to participate H. RES. 184 in an event each day of that week to teach a many other Americans honor and re- lesson that— spect his sacrifice helps greatly to ease Whereas on April 19, 1995, at 9:02 a.m. cen- tral daylight time in Oklahoma City, Okla- (i) hope can exist in the midst of political our sorrows. homa, America was attacked in one of the violence; ‘‘Thank you also for the flag, the one worst terrorist attacks on American soil, (ii) good endures in the world even among that was flown over the Capitol on the killing 168 and injuring more than 850 Ameri- those who commit bad acts; and day that Byron died, which will always cans; (iii) there is a way to resolve differences have a special place in the beautiful Whereas this dastardly act of domestic ter- other than by resorting to terrorism or vio- display box with his other treasures rorism affected thousands of families and lence; (6) congratulates the people of Oklahoma from his Marine Corps service. horrified millions of people across the State of Oklahoma and the United States; City for making tremendous progress over ‘‘He would be so amazed and so the past decade and for demonstrating their proud. The whole idea of naming the Whereas the people of Oklahoma and the United States responded to this tragedy steadfast commitment to such lessons; and post office is such a stunning honor. through the remarkable efforts of local, (7) applauds the people of Oklahoma City One of the things we worried about was State, and Federal law enforcement, fire, and as they continue to persevere and to stand as that people would soon forget about emergency services, search and rescue teams a beacon to the rest of the Nation and the Byron. If your bill passes, that will from across the United States, public and world attesting to the strength of goodness never happen and that is such a great private medical personnel, and thousands of in overcoming evil wherever it arises. comfort.’’ volunteers from the community who saved The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- No, we will not forget about Byron lives, assisted the injured, comforted the be- ant to the rule, the gentleman from and we will not forget about the other reaved, and provided meals and support to Texas (Mr. MARCHANT) and the gen- those who came to Oklahoma City to help tleman from Illinois (Mr. DAVIS) each fallen heroes defending freedom. As those endangered or otherwise affected by with all the parents I have met with will control 20 minutes. this terrorist act; The Chair recognizes the gentleman who have lost a loved one in this war, Whereas the people of Oklahoma and the they all say the same thing, ‘‘Finish United States pledged themselves to create, from Texas (Mr. MARCHANT). the job.’’ build, and maintain a permanent national GENERAL LEAVE We must realize that while this Fed- memorial to remember those who were Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I ask eral building will bear his name, it will killed, those who survived, and those unanimous consent that all Members also stand as a symbol for all those changed forever; may have 5 legislative days within who have died in the name of Amer- Whereas the Oklahoma City National Me- which to revise and extend their re- morial draws hundreds of thousands of visi- ica’s freedom and security by showing tors from around the world every year to the marks and include extraneous material the world Americans never forget their site of this tragic event in American history; on H. Res. 184. heroes. Today we can honor those he- Whereas the Oklahoma City National Me- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there roes through Sergeant Byron Norwood morial brings comfort, strength, peace, hope, objection to the request of the gen- by giving the post office in his home- and serenity to the many visitors who come tleman from Texas? town his name. to the memorial and museum each year to There was no objection. Mr. Speaker, naming the remember and to learn about this tragic Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I Pflugerville, Texas, Post Office for Ma- event; yield myself such time as I may con- Whereas the 10th anniversary of the ter- sume. rine Sergeant Byron Norwood is the rorist bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Fed- very least we can do for the memory eral Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Mr. Speaker, this important resolu- and the family whose son paid the ulti- is on April 19, 2005; and tion recognizes the National Week of mate sacrifice. Whereas the Oklahoma City National Me- Hope in commemoration of the 10th- May God bless Janet and Bill Nor- morial will commemorate the anniversary of year anniversary of the terrorist bomb- wood and may He hold Byron in the the terrorist bombing by recognizing the ing in Oklahoma City. palm of His hand. week of April 17–24, 2005, as the National Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I Week of Hope, which will include a day of may consume to the gentleman from faith, a day of understanding, a day of re- yield myself such time as I may con- Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK), the distin- membrance, a day of sharing, a day of toler- sume. ance, a day of caring, and a day of inspira- guished sponsor of House Resolution Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to be tion, and the annual Oklahoma City Memo- 184. a cosponsor of House Resolution 1001 rial Marathon, A Run to Remember: Now, Mr. ISTOOK. Mr. Speaker, I thank that honors Sergeant Byron Norwood. I therefore, be it the gentleman for yielding me time.

VerDate jul 14 2003 05:28 Apr 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K20AP7.014 H20PT1 April 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2161 House Resolution 184 recognizes a Because of that, a museum was estab- tinued the city’s growth beyond the National Week of Hope. Some people lished that promotes hope. The Murrah memorial. The area surrounding the might be surprised to think that we are National Institute for the Prevention memorial is now flourishing with busi- commemorating an incident that took of Terrorism has been established, and nesses, restaurants and family enter- 168 lives, and we are talking not in we are grateful to the entire Nation, tainment. Oklahoma City and the terms of the lives taken, but we are not only for the outreach of people State of Oklahoma could have given up talking in terms of the hope that has that came for rescue operations and during this tragedy, but instead, they been generated. have helped in the rebuilding, but for became emboldened as they faced the It was 10 years ago yesterday that, the thoughts and the prayers, and we difficult challenges placed before them. intentionally, domestic terrorists ex- want to remember that with the Na- This growth in Oklahoma City shows ploded a truck bomb in front of the Al- tional Week of Hope. the strength that can be accomplished fred P. Murrah Federal Building in Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, through the power of hope. My col- Oklahoma City. One hundred sixty- it is my pleasure to yield such time as league, the gentleman from Oklahoma eight lives were lost, including 19 chil- he might consume to the gentleman (Mr. ISTOOK) mentioned that earlier. It dren. Eight hundred fifty people were from Oklahoma (Mr. BOREN), a new shows Oklahomans’ hope for a safe injured; hundreds of buildings were Member of the House and a cosponsor place to work, our hope for a safe place damaged in addition to the destruction of this resolution from the 2nd District to take our families, and above all, our of the Murrah Building. Thirty chil- of Oklahoma. hope for normalcy after such a tragic dren were orphaned; 219 children lost at Mr. BOREN. Mr. Speaker, I thank event. least one parent. And yet despite all the gentleman from Illinois for yield- The great accomplishments that this, all this, we talk about hope be- ing time. I want to thank the Members have been demonstrated by my fellow cause the response of Oklahoma City of the Oklahoma delegation, the gen- Oklahomans since April 19, 1995, should has shown that not only are we not de- tlemen from Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK, be an example to all those in our Na- terred by acts of terrorism, but the Mr. LUCAS, Mr. SULLIVAN and Mr. tion and around the world who face ad- best qualities of our community in COLE), for coming together to support versity in their own lives. Oklahoma City are brought to the fore- this resolution. The people of Oklahoma City deserve front by that. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and join my the recognition and remembrance that colleagues in voicing support for House this resolution provides them. I am b 1100 Resolution 184. Just over 24 hours ago honored to give my support to this res- We are grateful for the thousands of marked the 10th anniversary of the olution which recognizes a National people who came from across America Murrah Federal Building bombing in Week of Hope and commemoration of to assist in the disaster relief efforts, Oklahoma City. We should never forget not only the loss in Oklahoma City, but we are more grateful for the thou- the lives lost and forever changed by but the resilience of its residents. sands of Oklahomans who since that the events of this day. Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I time have pitched in to remember what On April 19, 1995, at 9:02 a.m. while yield as much time as he may consume happened there and to use it as a foun- the building employees worked at their to the gentleman from the State of dation for making better lives. desks, the visitors walked the halls and Oklahoma (Mr. COLE), my distin- The children of those who were the children played in the day care cen- guished colleague. The gentleman from killed, all through private donations, ter, a massive explosion caused by a Oklahoma (Mr. COLE) was the Okla- have college funds guaranteed to them. terrorist bomb leveled the entire north homa Secretary of State on April 19, We have now the national memorial side of the building. In the end, 168 in- 1995. built on the site of the former Murrah nocent men, women and children sense- (Mr. COLE of Oklahoma asked and Building where yesterday we had serv- lessly lost their lives as they were car- was given permission to revise and ex- ices with Vice President CHENEY, rying on with their daily schedules. tend his remarks.) former President Bill Clinton, the gov- The devastation does not end, how- Mr. COLE of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, ernor and former governor of Okla- ever, with the sons and daughters, the I want to thank the gentleman from homa, myself and many others, speak- husbands and wives, and the brothers Texas for yielding me time, and I cer- ing to commemorate and remember the and sisters that lost their lives on that tainly want to thank the gentleman lives lost and the lives changed forever day. Left in the aftermath were 30 or- from Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK) for offer- in that building. phaned children and 219 children who ing this thoughtful and gracious and The Murrah Building housed regional lost at least one parent. These, too, are heartfelt resolution. offices for a number of Federal agen- victims of this horrific act. In total, 850 I want my remarks on the floor cies: Secret Service; Social Security; people were physically injured by the today to be spontaneous, just as the re- Drug Enforcement Agency; Housing bombing. sponse to the bombing in Oklahoma and Urban Development; Bureau of Al- In addition to the human loss, there City was by thousands of Oklahomans cohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explo- was damage to over 300 buildings. This and millions of Americans. sives; Armed Services Recruiting and damage caused over 7,000 Oklahomans There are some dates that one re- many others. But where once it was a to be left without a place to work and members in their life. If one is from my symbol of the Federal Government, left 462 residents homeless. With this in generation, they remember the day now it is a symbol of people who, be- mind, my heartfelt sympathy goes out that President Kennedy was assas- cause of tragedy, turned to their faith, to all the families in my State of Okla- sinated, with crystal clarity; and I turned to caring for one another, car- homa and around the Nation who suf- think all Americans remember where ing for the victims, caring for the sur- fered a loss during this tragedy. they were and what they were doing vivors, caring for the rescue workers. I tell my colleagues that during the when the awful tragedy of 9/11 un- We want to commemorate that with 10 years since the bombing, the healing folded; and certainly all Oklahomans, a National Week of Hope, to know not process has been taking place in Okla- and I think many Americans, remem- only will we not be deterred by ter- homa City, and the scars are healing in ber where they were on April 19, 1995. rorist acts, but also we are resolved to a remarkable fashion. The healing is I certainly remember where I was. I make it known that even among hate attributable to the people of the city was walking into the West entrance of there is a people and a community of and the State who have shown their the State capitol through a tunnel just faith in the United States of America. strong will and perseverance over the at 9 o’clock, and I felt the tremble, and That is the community of Oklahoma past decade by rebuilding. Out of the I wondered what it was, walked on City, and hope can exist in the midst of rubble and the heartbreak, they have down the hall into my office. My sec- violence. built a beautiful memorial for all to retary immediately came and said God endures in the world, even when visit. something awful has happened in down- bad acts are committed, and there is a Rather than allowing fear to keep town Oklahoma City; we do not know way to resolve differences other than them away from the downtown area, what, but something terrible has hap- by resorting to terrorism or violence. the people of Oklahoma City have con- pened.

VerDate jul 14 2003 04:51 Apr 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K20AP7.016 H20PT1 H2162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 20, 2005 That was followed immediately by a many people. Ron Norick, the mayor of morning, still wanting to do something call from my wife who at the time was Oklahoma City, again I think one of to help. Amazing. three blocks away from the blast site, the great public leaders in history, cer- b 1115 working in a law office in downtown tainly in my State, the fire chiefs, the Oklahoma City, fortunately on the 14th police officers, the responders, but My role in that particular crisis, as it floor and fortunately out of harm’s most important, just average people, unfolded, was to do what Governor way. But she called to say, something we could not ask for something and not Keating told me to do; and that was to terrible is occurring. She said, I can see get it. Frankly, we had more help pour- work with the Federal Government on through my windows there is smoke ing in than we could easily coordinate the rebuilding process, and I focused billowing up out of downtown, and on the first few days. my energy on that. We got a study and there are hundreds of people in the I will tell my colleagues this, too. I figured out how much damage there streets, streaming away; something am a very strong and very good Repub- had been, and we began to understand awful has happened. lican, and I certainly never voted for how many lives and how terrifically I immediately left my office and Bill Clinton, but I have got to tell my awful it would be. And then I turned to walked upstairs to the governor’s of- colleagues, he was a great President of the person that I knew would be the fice. As I walked through the door, I the United States in that particular most helpful in that crisis at the Fed- looked to my right, which was where tragedy. I will always be grateful for eral level and that was my good friend, the press room was located in that what he did. Congressman LUCAS. He represented suite of offices, and I saw Governor I remember the first day, again, of that area of Oklahoma City at that Keating and his chief of staff, Clinton the incident, and President Clinton had point. And let me tell you, he was a ty- Key, and they were watching on tele- called at 1 o’clock in the afternoon. By rant, a Trojan in working on behalf of vision, only 9 minutes into the disaster that point, the governor and his team Oklahoma City and the victims. He did at that point, but already helicopters had moved to the Civil Emergency everything you could ask him to do from local televisions stations were Management Center, an underground and more, just simply a magnificent re- there and giving us an aerial view. location at the capitol complex in sponse on the part of my dear and good There was a great deal of speculation Oklahoma City, and President Clinton friend. on the television about what had oc- and Frank Keating were old friends. In that crisis, there was a lot of curred, people attributing this to a Frank Keating had been the student praise, and I think justifiably for Okla- natural gas explosion. body president at Georgetown when homans, but I also think a vein of spec- Governor Keating, who was a former President Clinton was the sophomore ulation, Well, only Oklahomans would FBI agent and had investigated inci- class president at Georgetown. So respond this way. It is kind of a fron- dents of terrorism in the 1960s on the there was a familiarity and an ease of tier community, it is relatively homo- West Coast, knew immediately what it communication that was wonderful to geneous, it is very conservative, it is was. He said that is no natural gas ex- have in a crisis like that. very family oriented, has a strong basis plosion. That is a car bomb. That is I remember the President imme- of faith, and only in a place like that some sort of explosive device that has diately offering all the aid at the dis- would a response like that occur. been set off deliberately. posal of the United States of America; I did not think that was true, but I From that moment forward, I and let me tell my colleagues, my fel- have to tell you, on 9/11, when I watched an extraordinary response low Americans, you do not know how watched a very diverse and very sec- from one of the great public leaders lucky you are when you are in a crisis ular and very different New York City that I have ever been privileged to as- to be an American until that happens respond in exactly the same way as sociate with, Governor Frank Keating, to you, because the response was over- Oklahomans had responded, I had con- as he marshaled the State and moved it whelming, and the President was gen- firmed in an awful moment what I forward to deal with the tragedy in erous and gracious and amazingly help- knew then, that the Oklahoman re- front of him. ful. sponse was fundamentally an American I saw a marvelous response from his As we moved forward in that discus- response. That is the way Americans wife, to skip ahead just a moment, sion, President Clinton asked Governor behave toward one another when Cathy Keating, who organized the me- Keating the obvious and most impor- things do not go well. So I will always morial service that moved most Ameri- tant question in some ways: Do you remember this particular day. cans. That was her idea on the second have any idea who is responsible for Obviously, it is seared in my memory day of the tragedy. this terrible event? I remember there very, very deeply, and I remember the We were meeting that night, still not was lots of speculation about who tragedies that unfolded afterwards and, knowing, frankly, how many people might be responsible. There is still frankly, remember the response to had died, whether or not survivors were some speculation today, I suppose, but those tragedies even more profoundly. there, still dealing with all the tragedy Governor Keating was nothing if not But in closing, I would like to say, in associated with the event. She came cautious and careful as a law enforce- reflecting on Oklahoma City, and I into the meeting we were having in the ment official; and he said, We have no think it is clearly the lessons of 9/11 as governor’s mansion and said, We need earthly idea and we need to be very well, that out of evil, grace comes; and to have a memorial service; people careful here that blame not be placed I saw enormous grace on April 19, 1995, need to grieve. on communities or things that did not in Oklahoma City. And out of terror, I remember honestly thinking at the happen. courage comes; and I saw great cour- time, how in the world can we pull off The President very thoughtfully said, age, from the first responders to the something like this; we have more than Well, I certainly hope it was not a for- average person that went in. we can handle in front of us. I made eign national, because if it was, we will I remember Rebecca Anderson, who that sentiment known, and the first be at war someplace in the world in 6 was the one first responder and nurse lady, to her enduring credit, said, You months. I thought about that a lot whom we lost, because she went back leave it to me. People want to be in- after 9/11 and what unfolded there and into a dangerous building. And I re- volved. how prophetic he was, indeed, in that member my good friend Tim Giblet, I watched that extraordinary thing particular vision. who was working downtown at the come forward as volunteers pitched in, The day went on and it was a re- time, who saved a number of people, as thousands of people who could not markable day, it was an intense day, again going into a building, doing what help immediately wanted to do some- but I suppose my most enduring mem- he had no training to do. He was not an thing to respond and to help and to as- ory of the day is leaving the capitol at emergency worker, he just knew people sist the victims of the tragedy. She 3:00 in the morning and driving down needed help. So the courage was there. made that happen, and without her, Lincoln Boulevard to get home and And out of despair, hope, because frankly, it would have never occurred. looking out the window and seeing this there is a great deal of hope that comes I remember many other people. There incredible line of people standing out- when you see how your country and were so many heroes in those days, so side of a blood center at 3:00 in the your fellow human beings respond in a

VerDate jul 14 2003 04:51 Apr 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K20AP7.018 H20PT1 April 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2163 crisis. And, finally, out of adversity, as victims, and an unprecedented outpouring of Mr. Speaker, I have no further re- my good friend, the gentleman from love, aid, and hope from across the country quests for time, and I yield back the Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK) mentioned, tri- represented America’s spirit. And Americans balance of my time. umph. Because if you went to Okla- response America’s heart may have suffered a Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, how homa City today and you went to that terrible blow, but America’s spirit only grew much time does our side have remain- exact spot, you would find a magnifi- stronger. ing? cent memorial. You would find, more This bill commemorates the 10 year anni- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. importantly, a museum that not only versary of a terrible tragedy and I am proud as GRAVES). The gentleman from Texas tells the story, but puts the awful na- an Oklahoman to stand in this chamber to has 5 minutes remaining. ture of terrorism in a broader context; offer my full support of its passage. This anni- Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I and you would find a city that believes versary is not only an opportunity to remem- yield 4 minutes to my distinguished in itself and its future, probably more ber, but an opportunity to celebrate the Amer- colleague, the gentleman from Okla- profoundly today than it did on April ican spirit that unifies and buoys her citizens homa (Mr. LUCAS). Mr. LUCAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today 18 of 1995. in their most challenging times of need. That is a lesson I think all of us as Mr. Speaker, I again praise the gentleman in support of H. Res. 184, a bill recog- Americans ought to remember. We all from Oklahoma for this timely legislation and nizing a National Week of Hope in com- believe in our country, but when you urge support for the passage of H. Res. 184. memoration of the 10th anniversary of have a particular crisis, that is when Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I the terrorist bombing in Oklahoma America is at its very best. Certainly, yield myself such time as I may con- City. Yes, Mr. Speaker, 10 years ago, on on this particular day that is when sume. Mr. Speaker, the United States was April 19, 1995, an act of unimaginable Oklahoma was at its very best. And I forever changed on April 19, 1995, at 9:02 death and destruction occurred in will always be grateful to Governor a.m. Central time. What began as a Oklahoma City when the Alfred P. Keating, the First Lady, Cathy perfect spring day in Oklahoma City, Murrah Federal Building was blown up Keating; to my good friend FRANK quickly turned into a nightmare when in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks LUCAS, who was there when we needed a bomb exploded in front of the Alfred on American soil, killing 168 of our him; to the other members of our dele- P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 friends and family, 19 of them children. gation, Senator Nickles, Senator people and injuring more than 850. In that instance, America’s heartland INHOFE, who were also magnificent; but Today, as we reflect on that horrific lost its innocence. It shocked our Na- first and foremost to the people of event, I am proud to stand before you tion. It changed our lives forever. Oklahoma City, who showed when you in support of H. Res. 184, recognizing a Few events in the past quarter cen- are challenged what you can do; and National Week of Hope in commemora- tury have rocked Americans’ percep- then to our fellow Americans, who at tion of the 10th-year anniversary of the tions of themselves and their institu- every level, at every moment, re- terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City. tions and brought together the people sponded in the most helpful, the most So much has changed since that fateful of our Nation with greater intensity thoughtful, and in the most supportive day. No longer do we as American citi- than this heinous act. My primary dis- of ways. zens believe that we are isolated from trict office was a block and a half away It is a day to remember not only in terror. We know that the threat of an- from the Murrah Building. I will never terms of what is worst in humanity but other terrorist attack is very real. In forget, I will never forget being in Dal- what is best about America. the face of this threat, however, we las with the rest of the Oklahoma Fed- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support have chosen to face our fears and to eral delegation at a BRAC hearing of H. Res. 184, a resolution recognizing a Na- work together to keep our country when a news station radio reporter tional Week of Hope in commemoration of the safe. tapped me on the shoulder and said, 10-year anniversary of the terrorist bombing in Immediately following the explosion Congressman, we have a report that Oklahoma City. I also would like to commend on April 19, the true character of the Federal building in Oklahoma City my friend and colleague, the gentleman from Americans emerged. Law enforcement has been bombed. They say the build- Oklahoma, Mr. ISTOOK, for his efforts in bring- personnel, bystanders, and those who ing is gone. Where is your office? The ing such a meaningful bill before the House had narrowly escaped harm rushed to- thoughts that went through my mind for consideration. ward danger to attend to those who in that instant about my loyal staffers. April 19, 1995, will always be seared in my were injured by the explosion. Because The delegation came rushing back. memory as a day on which I see the worst of their heroism, many lives that oth- As I walked through my damaged of- and the best of human nature. As the then erwise would have been lost were saved fice, a block and a half away, on the acting Secretary of State for Oklahoma, it was that day. opposite side of the Murrah Building, not just the facts of that fateful day alone that In Oklahoma City today, where the looking at the destruction, and being cut quick to my heart. It was the realization Alfred Murrah Building once stood, thankful I had lost none of my people, that what happened in Oklahoma City would stands a poignant memorial that re- but knowing the heartbreak, the help- impact all of Oklahoma, all of America, and all minds us of each cherished life that lessness we all felt looking at that ter- of the world in the weeks ahead. was lost that tragic day. It also serves ror, that devastation that transpired But, Mr. Speaker, as the world witnessed as an important reminder to all of us on that day. this tragedy, and as Americans sought an- that each day is truly a blessing. Now, the bombing was a cowardly act swers to untold numbers of questions—the Mr. Speaker, I want to state my em- of tragic proportions, and 10 years after most compelling being why—there came an phatic support for this bill. The Na- the bombing, many of those affected unexpected response: it was clear that Ameri- tional Week of Hope will provide all are still trying to make sense of it. But cans did not need an answer in order to move Americans with the opportunity to re- what we know for certain is that on forward. Mr. Speaker, Oklahomans responded flect on the importance and value of that day we came together as a State immediately, and that response began at the human life. The National Week of Hope and as a Nation in the face of adver- exact same place of the tragedy the base of will include a day of faith, a day of un- sity. We comforted those afflicted, we the Murrah Federal Building itself, only mo- derstanding, a day of remembrance, a rebuilt our devastated city, we did not ments after 9:02 AM. Amazingly, this reply day of sharing, a day of tolerance, a let the terrorists win. sent a shockwave that was not only felt for day of caring, and a day of inspiration. I want to take this time to honor and just a few miles radius, but one that resonated Each day represents a core value that remember not only those who lost all over the world. reflects the strength of our Nation. their lives, but also those who sur- On April 19, 1995 terrorism struck the heart- I want to thank the gentleman from vived. We honor those who lost loved land of America. But, if 168 lives taken, 850 Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK) for introducing ones, those who upon hearing of the individuals injured, families ripped forever of this meaningful legislation. I pray that devastation rushed to the city to offer loved ones, and lives changed forever rep- all Americans will take cognizance of what help they could, the firemen, the resented America’s loss, then 12,384 volun- it and continue to demonstrate the policemen, the nurses, the structural teers and rescue workers, 190,000 estimated bravery and compassion that were ex- engineers, even the community mem- Oklahomans attending funerals for bombing hibited that tragic day in Oklahoma. bers who brought food and water for

VerDate jul 14 2003 04:51 Apr 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K20AP7.019 H20PT1 H2164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 20, 2005 the rescuers. They are heroes to all just over a year ago, and of course to rial, an American elm know as the survivor Oklahomans. establish the national memorial, mu- tree. Like so many other people in Okla- seum, and the antiterrorism institute The survivor tree was damaged. It was scarred. It was denuded. Almost, but not homa, this event has shaped my life, in Oklahoma City. quite, it was killed. Why did the survivor and as the U.S. Congressman rep- We are grateful for how the country tree withstand the blast and the shock? The resenting downtown Oklahoma City at reached out to our community and to answer is quite simple, as President Clinton the time of the bombing, I have had the our State, and as has been made clear mentioned, it is the roots; the roots pre- privilege and the opportunity to work by everyone who has spoken, we are served it. Despite all that it suffered, its these past 10 years to help ease the most grateful of all for the wonderful roots were deep, and they preserved it. And burden on Oklahoma City as a result of nature, character and spirit of the peo- that is why this city endures and prospers, despite the blast, the deaths, the injuries. that devastating tragedy. From re- ple of Oklahoma that have taken dis- Here we stand, and the reason we shall not questing Federal money to assisting in aster and used it as something to build be moved is because our roots go deep, and the rebuilding efforts, to introducing upon and make a stronger America, they are planted in the proper soil. And that to the House the legislation that estab- with stronger faith and a stronger is the soil of faith the eye that sees the foli- lished the national memorial, I am Oklahoma. age gradually return concealing some of the scars as we see in the lives of so many sur- honored to have had the chance to help COMMENTS BY CONGRESSMAN ERNEST ISTOOK vivors. Those scars and the progress may be in some small way. AT APRIL 19, 2005, 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY visible but what is not visible is the roots. Mr. Speaker, I close today the way I COMMEMORATION OF MURRAH BUILDING The roots were not created by any public of- BOMBING, OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA closed a speech I made on this very ficial, not any organization of survivors, not House floor on May 2, 1995, just 13 days Today we gather to remember and renew by the many who so willingly came here to after the attack. As you remember, a our strength and our bonds as Americans and give aid. The roots of the survivor tree were spontaneous memorial formed around as Oklahomans. made by God, and this city’s roots are plant- the perimeter of the Murrah Building, Tomorrow, the U.S. House will designate ed deeply in the faith in God. It is God who this week as a National Week of Hope, to just as one did years later in New York has inspired the enduring faith that has carry across the Nation the message of hope mended hearts, sparked outpourings of gen- City, a mound of wreaths, bouquets, that we share today. teddy bears, tear-stained poems laid erosity, and provided sheltering arms for In this resolution, we state that we join people to shed their tears in that embrace. out, paying tribute to those who per- with this community in hope and prayer in a As one person expressed it to me, ‘our faith ished. national week of hope and ask the Nation to is greater than their sin.’ One particular offering spoke, I be- join us in the wish that we will all learn So often, we invoke the words, ‘God bless lieve, for all Oklahomans. It consisted these 3 lessons stated in the resolution: that America.’ We need to remember, God has al- of a teddy bear with a paper heart at- hope can exist in the midst of political vio- ready blessed America. God has already tached, bearing a crayon inscription lence, that good endures in the world even blessed Oklahoma. God has already blessed among those who commit bad acts, and that Oklahoma City. Instead of only asking for which read as follows: ‘‘Oklahoma, bro- there is a way to resolve our differences kenhearted, yes; broken spirit, never.’’ God’s blessings, maybe we need to spend other than by resorting to terrorism and vio- more time with us blessing God, and praising Ten years after the bombing, we Okla- lence. him for our lives and our land, and praising homans are stronger than ever. The resolution states that the Congress him for the faith that sustains the city. Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I congratulates the people of Oklahoma City Without God, this city, this state, and this yield 1 additional minute to the gen- for making tremendous progress over the Nation have no roots. With Him, our roots tleman from Oklahoma (Mr. ISTOOK), past decade and for demonstrating their are solid and they nourish us. We have many the sponsor of House Resolution 184, to steadfast commitment to these three les- great symbols here in the city and in the me- sons. It applauds the people of Oklahoma morial, but it is God who has provided the close. City for standing as a beacon to the Nation, (Mr. ISTOOK asked and was given greatest symbol of all—the Survivor Tree. and a beacon to the world, attesting to the We could never do that, for only God can permission to revise and extend his re- strength of goodness in overcoming evil. How make a tree. marks.) proper it is that it says that Oklahoma City Thank you for being the people of faith, Mr. ISTOOK. Mr. Speaker, as is evi- stands as a beacon. and may America bless God. dent a great many people responded to So often I heard the words of former Presi- Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. Speaker, on April 19, this situation. Over 12,000 emergency dent Ronald Reagan saying America needs to 1995, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma suffered one be a shining city on a hill. Those looking for workers, rescue workers and volunteer of the worst terrorist attacks on American soil, workers, were at the site within a mat- a shining city need look no farther than Oklahoma City. We will adopt the resolution killing 168 people and injuring more than 850 ter of only a couple of days. They came because America has learned from what has Americans. Before the terrorist attacks of 9/11, from all over America, for which we happened here. America has learned from our the Oklahoma City bombing was the worst act are grateful and will always remember. actions, not from our words, that have of terrorism ever committed on American soil. I want to add some additional thanks touched the soul of the Nation. I want to As a native Oklahoman, I was devastated to some people that have not been mention 2 symbols; one not far away from by this terrible act of terror, the innocent loss mentioned that I, as someone who here sits atop the dome of the state Capitol. of life, the destruction of the Alfred P. Murrah shared representation of Oklahoma It is a special symbol, a statue crafted by Enoch Kelly Haney called ‘The Guardian,’ an Federal Building and the hundreds of other City with Congressman LUCAS at the buildings that were damaged in the sur- time, and as someone who now rep- Indian brave with a tall spear, its end plant- ed in the earth. rounding Oklahoma City area. resents that specific building site, I That statue is a way of saying ‘Here we The people of Oklahoma responded to this want to express appreciation for those stand. We shall not be moved.’ That thought tragedy through the remarkable and valiant ef- with whom we also worked. says a lot about the spirit of Oklahoma, and forts of local, state, and federal law enforce- As a member of the Committee on the spirit of Oklahoma City, and our refusal ment, fire, emergency services, and search Appropriations, I worked directly with to be deterred by the obscenity of terrorism. and rescue teams from across the United former Chairman Bob Livingston, But being steadfast and immobile, we rec- States. Thousands of volunteers from the ognize here is only a virtue if we are already former Speaker Newt Gingrich, and community came and saved lives, assisted the former Infrastructure Chairman Bud in the right place and doing the right thing. If we send a message that we will not be injured, comforted the bereaved and gave Shuster in making sure that we fash- moved, then we must make sure we are hope to the victims and their families. ioned the correct Federal response. standing firm for what is good and for what This tragedy could have torn Oklahoma City And, in fact, something in the neigh- is virtuous. Fortunately, this is a place that apart, but instead, the tragedy united an entire borhood of $200 million flowed in to re- aspires to stand for the good, and we have community and an entire nation. On that ter- imburse law enforcement and safety fertile soil for virtue. rible day, out of the rubble, the people of expenses, to pay the cost of rebuilding Oklahomans know that it is not enough to Oklahoma City resoundingly stood up against hundreds of damaged properties, to es- inherit great blessings; blessings have to be terror to stand as a beacon of light to the rest tablish a permanent revolving loan shared. We have to make this a better com- munity and a better land than we found it, of the nation and the world, attesting to the fund for the redevelopment of the area, better for our children, better for our grand- fact that good will always triumph over evil, the area that surrounds the former children. wherever evil may arise. Murrah site, to build the new Federal And the key is to this found in the other On the 10th anniversary of this tragedy, I building and campus, which was opened symbol the enduring emblem of this memo- commend my fellow Oklahomans for their

VerDate jul 14 2003 04:51 Apr 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K20AP7.020 H20PT1 April 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2165 strength, their faith, and for their resolve to Judge Vargas worked at the Depart- I thank the gentleman from Virginia move forward in the face of overwhelming ment of Human Services as a case- (Chairman TOM DAVIS) and the ranking odds to build a better Oklahoma and a greater worker directly helping citizens in member, the gentleman from Cali- America. need for 28 years. He also served as a fornia (Mr. WAXMAN), for their assist- Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I trustee on the Goliad Independent ance in moving this legislation to the yield back the balance of my time. School District Board, and for the past floor prior to the Cinco de Mayo cele- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 10 years he has been a justice of the bration. I also thank the gentleman question is on the motion offered by peace for Goliad County, which in from Illinois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gen- the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Texas is an elected position in which tleman from Texas (Mr. MARCHANT) as MARCHANT) that the House suspend the one earns the title ‘‘judge.’’ well as four other Members of Con- rules and agree to the resolution, H. I know the gentleman from Texas gress, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Res. 184. (Mr. HINOJOSA) feels strongly about the ORTIZ), the gentleman from Texas (Mr. The question was taken; and (two- contributions of Judge Vargas, and I REYES), the gentleman from Texas (Mr. thirds having voted in favor thereof) congratulate my colleague for advanc- GONZALEZ), and the gentleman from the rules were suspended and the reso- ing H.R. 1072 on the floor today. Texas (Mr. CUELLAR) for their kind lution was agreed to. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of words on behalf of this legislation to A motion to reconsider was laid on my time. name this Federal building for an out- the table. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I standing citizen. yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Judge Vargas is a first-generation f Texas (Mr. CUELLAR). American who was born in Goliad, b 1130 Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I stand Texas. As a child, he attended seg- regated schools because of his Mexican JUDGE EMILIO VARGAS POST in support of H.R. 1072, which, as the heritage. Yet his father and mother al- OFFICE BUILDING gentleman from Texas (Mr. MARCHANT) has said, has the unanimous support of ways taught him to be proud of being Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I the whole Texas delegation, both an American. He took this lesson to move to suspend the rules and pass the Democrats and Republicans, the 32 heart and after graduating from Bee bill (H.R. 1072) to designate the facility members of the Texas delegation. College, he volunteered and joined the of the United States Postal Service lo- H.R. 1072 is a piece of legislation that Air Force where he served as an air- cated at 151 West End Street in Goliad, will name the post office in Goliad, man. After leaving the Air Force, he Texas, as the ‘‘Judge Emilio Vargas Texas, after a great American, a great returned home and spent the rest of his Post Office Building’’. Texan, Judge Emilio Vargas. Judge life working to improve the lives of the The Clerk read as follows: Emilio Vargas is a first-generation people in his community of Goliad. H.R. 1072 American who was born in Goliad. During the 1960s, Judge Vargas was Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- As a child, he attended segregated active in the civil rights movement resentatives of the United States of America in schools because of his Hispanic back- and worked to eliminate the poll tax in Congress assembled, ground. Despite that, he went off to Texas. Since then, he has fought to in- SECTION 1. DESIGNATION OF JUDGE EMILIO Bee College, graduated, and then he crease Hispanic participation in gov- VARGAS POST OFFICE BUILDING. volunteered, joined the American Air ernment at all levels. (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the Judge Vargas understands the impor- Force where he served as an airman. United States Postal Service located at 151 tance of developing an educated popu- After serving his country, he went West End Street in Goliad, Texas, shall be lation. For 14 years, he served on the home and focused on improving the known and designated as the ‘‘Judge Emilio Goliad Independent School District lives of his people in the community. Vargas Post Office Building’’. Board of Trustees. During his tenure, (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, During the 1960s, Judge Vargas was the Goliad School District was voted map, regulation, document, paper, or other active in the civil rights movement one of the 10 best school boards in record of the United States to the facility re- and worked to eliminate the poll tax in Texas. Because of his commitment to ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to Texas. He worked to increase Hispanic quality education, numerous students be a reference to the ‘‘Judge Emilio Vargas participation in government and fo- Post Office Building’’. from Goliad have gone to prestigious cused on getting an educated popu- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. colleges and universities, including the lation in his community. For 14 years U.S. military academies. GRAVES). Pursuant to the rule, the gen- he served in the Goliad Independent tleman from Texas (Mr. MARCHANT) For over 28 years, Judge Vargas School District Board of Trustees, served with the Texas Department of and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. where he focused on education. He be- DAVIS) each will control 20 minutes. Human Services as a caseworker, dis- lieved in the words of President John tinguishing himself for helping the in- The Chair recognizes the gentleman F. Kennedy when President Kennedy from Texas (Mr. MARCHANT). digent and vulnerable in a six-county said the progress of a Nation can be no region. He worked with a Job Corps GENERAL LEAVE swifter than the progress of its edu- program helping to train new workers Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I ask cational system; and he worked hard to and with the surplus commodity pro- unanimous consent that all Members make sure that students could go to grams feeding hungry families. may have 5 legislative days within school, go to college, and become good For the past 10 years, he has served which to revise and extend their re- citizens and become part of the Amer- as the justice of the peace for Goliad marks and include extraneous material ican Dream. County and for 9 years was a reserve on the bill under consideration. I stand here with the gentleman from deputy for the Goliad County Sheriff’s The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Texas (Mr. HINOJOSA) in support of this Department. objection to the request of the gen- particular bill, H.R. 1072, and ask that In addition to his military, his public tleman from Texas? we name the post office in Goliad after and civic service, Judge Vargas has There was no objection. this great American, great Texan, also dedicated a large part of his life to Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I Judge Vargas. the preservation and celebration of yield myself such time as I may con- Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I re- Goliad’s rich heritage and historical sume. serve the balance of my time. significance. For my fellow colleagues Mr. Speaker, this meaningful legisla- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I who may not be aware, Goliad, Texas, tion honors Emilio Vargas, a com- yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from is the birthplace of Mexican General mitted social advocate in south Texas. Texas (Mr. HINOJOSA), the sponsor of Ignacio Zaragoza. General Zaragoza is H.R. 1072 designates the postal facility this legislation. a Texas-born hero who on May 5, 1862, in Goliad, Texas, as the Judge Emilio Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise led his Army of 4,000 Mexican soldiers Vargas Post Office Building. I am today in strong support of H.R. 1072, a to defeat 1,000 of Napoleon’s men. This pleased to join with all Members of my bill to name the post office in Goliad, military victory is credited as the ac- home State of Texas as a cosponsor of Texas, in honor of Judge Emilio tion that turned the tide of the French- H.R. 1072. Vargas. Mexican War in Mexico’s favor.

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