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Lipinski Honors America's Veterans in Brookfield and Stickney (November 11, 2009)

 

Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-03) honored America's veterans for their courage and paid tribute to their sacrifices at Veterans Day ceremonies in Stickney and at Brookfield Zoo on Wednesday.

"Every year, on the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, we offer our veterans our heartfelt thanks for the valiant service they have rendered in defending our nation," Congressman Lipinski said. "But we cannot remember our veterans each November 11, only to soon forget all they have endured in order to preserve our freedom and make America the greatest country on earth. Just as we benefit each day from their vigilance and their bravery, we must make sure that each day they are treated with the profound respect they have earned. As the appalling and senseless murder of 13 people at Fort Hood showed, every member of our Armed Forces has placed themselves in harm's way, whether they are serving here on American soil or overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, we pray for them and their families, for all those who served before them, and for all those who are protecting us even now, wherever they may be. Our gratitude knows no bounds."

At Brookfield Zoo, Congressman Lipinski was joined at Roosevelt Fountain by Dr. Stuart Strahl, president and CEO of the Chicago Zoological Society, and VFW Post 2580's Honor Guard, as a memorial wreath was placed by the fountain by veterans who are zoo employees. Also on hand for the ceremony were representatives of the organization Operation Stars and Stripes, which creates care packages for members of the Armed Forces.

At Stickney's veterans' memorial, Congressman Lipinski spoke along with Sen. Louis Viverito, Stickney Mayor Daniel O'Reilly, and Patrick Quinn, a veteran of the Korean War from Burbank who delivered a moving speech on the more than two-and-a-half years he spent as a POW. The Stickney Police Department contributed a 21-gun salute.

"I look forward to continuing to work on behalf of the veterans of the Third District," Congressman Lipinski said. "Knowing what they have done for America inspires me to make sure America provides them with all that they deserve."

(November 11, 2009)

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