Chuck Hagel: “I have two final comments to make regarding this resolution commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans…”

“I have two final comments to make regarding this resolution commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. First, the recognition of the vision, the heart, the soul, and the leadership behind it, a remarkable man, Jan Scruggs. It was Jan Scruggs who many, many years ago came home one night after a movie, sat down with his wife, and said, ``We are going to do something to recognize those who served in the Vietnam.'' It was a great dream, an impossible dream. One of the collaborators with Jan Scruggs was one of our colleagues, Senator John Warner. Without Senator John Warner's leadership, and without his force, and without Jan Scruggs' vision and leadership and love, this Wall would never have been built. It is very appropriate to recognize Jan Scruggs and Senator John Warner because those two great Americans led this effort and have given us a magnificent monument and memorial.”