Political Quotes

“Mr. President, today I wish to honor several Nevada heroes who recently received the Congressional Gold Medal for their service in the Philippines during World War II: Sergeant Regalado Baldonado, Private Aurelio Dela Cruz, Corporal Benito Anton, and Private First Class Leonardo Palao and the many other Filipino and Filipino-American veterans across our Nation. I would also like to acknowledge Maximino Vasquez, a recognized World War II Filipino veteran and Nevada resident who is on his way to receiving the Congressional Gold Medal as well. My appreciation for all of their service and sacrifice is immeasurable. During World War II, more than 260,000 Filipino soldiers from the U.S. Commonwealth of the Philippines answered President Roosevelt's call to fight under the American flag. These individuals fought bravely, some making the ultimate sacrifice in defense of democracy and freedom. More than half a century later, our Nation made a commitment to honoring them for their service. As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, I believe it is our solemn responsibility to recognize those who put their lives on the line. That is why I was proud to work with my colleague Senator Hirono to pass into law the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, Public Law 114-265, to recognize the dedication and heroism of these individuals.…”