Political Quotes

“I am a proud son of Mount Vernon, New York. I was born there. I went to school there, and it shaped the person who I am today. My roots run deep in that community, and I carry its values with me every day in my work here in Congress. During World War I, 22 fellow sons of Mount Vernon answered the call to serve and joined the fight to defend freedom abroad. These men became part of the legendary Harlem Hellfighters, the 369th Infantry Regiment of the New York Army National Guard. The Harlem Hellfighters hold a remarkable and important place in our Nation's history. Comprised primarily of Black Americans, this unit was among the first African-American regiments to serve with the American Expeditionary Forces during the First World War, and a later version served in the Second World War. Mr. Speaker, because the U.S. Army remained segregated at the time, these men were assigned to fight under French command. They spent nearly 200 days in front-line trenches, more than any other American unit. They faced unimaginable hardship but never wavered. They suffered the most casualties of any American regiment with nearly 1,500 men making the ultimate sacrifice. Yet, despite their heroism and service, they returned home to a country that did not afford them the recognition they earned. Today that changes. This afternoon, these brave men, our Harlem Hellfighters, will be honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award Congress can bestow.”