Shelley Berkley: “Well, if it wasn't for your leadership we might not be here this evening doing this, so I thank you. Congresswoman, when…”

“Well, if it wasn't for your leadership we might not be here this evening doing this, so I thank you. Congresswoman, when you and I hear the beautiful song ``God Bless America,'' it means a great deal to us because I think every day God bless America, God bless this country. But the interesting thing is Irving Berlin gained prominence as a composer of patriotic songs. As you know, Irving Berlin was a very famous composer, he was Jewish, and he wanted to show his love of this country and use his talents in order to create these remarkably patriotic songs. And ``God Bless America'' is still among my favorites. And he received the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor in recognition of his service to this country in composing these patriotic songs. So whenever I hear that song I get a little patter in my heart, and it particularly makes me proud that an American Jew composed it.”