Madeleine Bordallo: “during World War II, the War in the Pacific began with attacks on the United States on December 7, 1941, including the…”

“during World War II, the War in the Pacific began with attacks on the United States on December 7, 1941, including the bombing of Pearl Harbor, attacks on the Philippine Islands and the invasion of Guam. Within days of these attacks, our nation and our allies mobilized for war. The United States and the Philippines united behind the cause of democracy and we are proud of the support of the Filipinos during that difficult time. This is why I rise today in support of House Resolution 622, to recognize and honor the Filipino World War II veterans for their defense of democratic ideals and their important contribution to the outcome of World War II. Ultimate victory belonged to the cause of freedom and therefore to the American and Filipino people. Having suffered a brutal occupation, Filipinos and Guamanians alike were liberated in the march to allied victory in World War II. Filipino soldiers and civilians fought, sacrificed and died side-by- side with members of the U.S. Armed Forces throughout the course of the World War II. Loyal to the American flag and to the ideals which our country represented, Filipinos fought with notable skill, dedication, and heroism. We honor their commitment to freedom and democracy. Over sixty years later, we pause today to remember the valor and the commitment to freedom displayed by Filipinos who fought the invading forces alongside their American brothers in arms.…”