WASHINGTON, D.C.  -  The House of Representatives passed 378-0 tonight a resolution honoring the 60th Anniversary of the beginning of the integration of the Armed Services.

The bill, which was sponsored by Third District Congressman Mike Rogers, helps pay tribute to the contributions of the many African American soldiers who have served our nation bravely and honorably throughout our history, including East Alabama’s Tuskegee Airmen.

House Concurrent Resolution 297, which was co-authored by Representative Kendrick Meek (FL) and the entire Alabama delegation, has 38 cosponsors. Rogers said tonight after passage of the resolution he was honored the House recognized the importance of the occasion.

“At this important anniversary, I am honored that Congress has recognized the selfless sacrifices of so many of our brave African American heroes. The beginning of the integration of our armed services did not solve these injustices overnight, but it did help the process of healing so many wrongs here at home."

“We are a better and stronger nation because of the selfless contributions of brave Americans like the Tuskegee Airmen, and I hope today’s Congressional action helps further highlight the importance of their service,” Rogers concluded.

Rogers said the resolution recognizes the July 26, 1948 signing of Executive Order 9981 by President Harry S. Truman, which mandated there be equality of treatment with all persons in the Armed Services regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin.

Rogers serves on the House Armed Services Committee. He said the occasion would be further recognized in late July a ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda.
                                                                   -###-