George Holding: “This Saturday, January 24, marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Winston Churchill. Over the past half century, he…”

“This Saturday, January 24, marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Winston Churchill. Over the past half century, he has passed from memory into history, yet stands unchallenged as one of the greatest figures of modern times. Born of an American mother and a British father, his life and career symbolized the fellowship of the English-speaking peoples. Just outside this very Chamber, Mr. Speaker, stands an enduring tribute to the ``British Bulldog'' in the Freedom Foyer. The placement of Churchill's bust inside the U.S. Capitol serves as a testament to our special relationship with the United Kingdom and to the values our two nations have fought so dearly to defend: democracy and freedom. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit into the Record a touching account of Mr. Churchill's passing written by Celia Sandys, his granddaughter, and the only surviving member of the Churchill family present at his death. My Grandfather's Final Days The Personal Account of Hon. Celia Sandys His birthdays were always a big family occasion. The first one that I can remember clearly was his eightieth birthday in 1954 when there was a huge event in Westminster Hall. The purpose was for both Houses of Parliament to mark the day with tributes and the presentation of the portrait by Graham Sutherland, which had been commissioned as a gift for him. The rumour was out that the image was less than flattering.…”