George P. Radanovich: “As we approach the upcoming Veterans holiday weekend, I wanted to remind all Americans of the wonderful and rare…”

“As we approach the upcoming Veterans holiday weekend, I wanted to remind all Americans of the wonderful and rare opportunity before them. As my colleagues may recall, Mr. Speaker, following the tragic events of September 11, Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton and National Park Service Director Fran Manella announced that all entrance fees to all of the 385 units of the National Park System would be waived over Veterans Day weekend. The events of September 11 will never be erased from our memories. Each of us will remember where we were and what we were doing on that tragic day. They have taken their toll upon many of us in so many ways. Since these events, many have found solace in America's national parks for healing. All of our national parks serve as a tool to recapture the American spirit and provide much of the healing Americans are looking for. I applaud the Secretary's announcement and encourage all Americans to take advantage of this weekend for unity, hope, and healing by visiting the diverse treasures of America's national park system.”