Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and remember architect Friedrich St. Florian. He was a visionary architect whose profound design of the National World War II Memorial on our National Mall has left an indelible, enduring mark honoring our Nation's history along that historic Mall of democracy--our collective memory. Friedrich's architecture does more than commemorate. It invites reflection, on that area of the Mall, on the sacrifices of the greatest and most unselfish generation this Nation has ever seen, ensuring that their valor, unity, and sacrifice are honored for all time. Friedrich was born amidst the throes of conflict in Graz, Austria. Friedrich's early experiences of war profoundly shaped his values and vision. His architectural design of the World War II Memorial was not merely a professional task. It stands as his personal tribute to freedom and to democracy and its cost. He was deeply informed by his own moment of liberation at the end of World War II. How fortunate as an American he could connect that experience to our own. The memorial represents the 20th century's most valued achievement: The victory of liberty over tyranny. As an Austrian by birth and an American by choice, Friedrich brought grace, dignity, and artistry along with his deeply held belief in the cost of liberty. The memorial and its design stands as a testament to his commitment to honor the sacrifices of those who fought to save liberty for our generation and those to follow.…”