On the recordDecember 12, 2012
We are here today in an unprecedented show of bipartisanship with this piece of legislation. H.R. 6364 is the product of both sides of the aisle working together to do what is right to honor the memory of our veterans. I especially want to thank Representative Ted Poe for his efforts in bringing this bill to the floor today as well as to thank Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton for her work on the legislation. Of course, I'd also like to thank Majority Leader Cantor for his support along the way. {time} 1520 Frank Buckles, who was on the stage of the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City just 4 years ago during the Veterans Day program, was the last surviving veteran from World War I, and he was from the State of Missouri. Unfortunately, he passed away during the drafting of this very bill. However, even with Mr. Buckles' passing, our commitment remains strong as it is never too late to demonstrate our appreciation to the veterans of the Great War for their service and sacrifices. This bill will honor that service by establishing a centennial commission that would see to it that the 100th anniversary of the Great War did not slip away, as many things slip away in this place where there is sometimes more partisan bickering than is necessary. Not only does this bill serve to honor the memory of our great veterans; but it stands, I think, as a symbol that bipartisanship and cooperation are, indeed, possible.…
