Joe Baca: “I rise in support of H.R. 360, a resolution commemorating the 60th anniversary of V-J Day and the end of World War II in…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 360, a resolution commemorating the 60th anniversary of V-J Day and the end of World War II in the Pacific. Sixty years ago today, Japanese offIcials formally surrendered and by doing so concluded the bloodiest war in modern history, The United States entered the Second World War in December 1941, following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and over the next four years Americans participated in the greatest national endeavor in our Nation's history. The casualty toll of Americans in the Pacific Theater during World War II was approximately 92,904 killed, 208,333 wounded, and tens of thousands missing in action and prisoners of war, with civilians and military forces of the Allied Powers suffering equally devastating tolls. Mr. Speaker, the people of the lnland Empire are grateful to this greatest generation for their sacrifice and we honor them for their courage. Courage of people like Frank Sandoval of Ontario, California who bravely stood his ground as a landing crew machinist during battles with Japanese forces off the Island of Leyte, Philippines. Courage like that of former Congressman Jerry Pettis, who fought in the Pacific and then returned home to dedicate his life to his community. Indeed, our local VA Medical Center in Loma Linda is named after him. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this resolution so we may appropriately acknowledge the countless number of Americans who sacrificed their lives in World War II.…”