Chuck Hagel: “I rise to congratulate Michael Walsh of Omaha, NE, an outstanding student and young history scholar whose National…”

“I rise to congratulate Michael Walsh of Omaha, NE, an outstanding student and young history scholar whose National History Day project has been chosen out of half a million in America to be presented today at the White House Visitor Center. Michael's documentary, ``Let the Word Go Forth: JFK's New Frontier,'' highlights President Kennedy's unique ability to communicate effectively with both Americans and leaders throughout the world, especially during the Cuban missile crisis, a critical time in America's history. His project shows that young Americans can take important historical events and share them with us in an interesting and educational way. Michael is a student at Lewis and Clark Middle School in Omaha. National History Day is a unique approach to teaching and learning history in our Nation's classrooms. It allows students to create exhibits, documentaries and performances by using their critical thinking and research skills in the subject of history. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the National History Day organization. All of Nebraska is proud of Michael's commitment to scholarship. This young Nebraskan understands that history shapes our future and influences the world we live in today. I ask my colleagues to join me and all Americans in honoring Michael Walsh and all students who participated in National History Day. ____________________”