United States House of Representatives, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz
color photographs of scenes from Florida's Twentieth Congressional District
Press Release
Memorial Day 2008: Recognizing and Honoring The Service of Women in The Armed Forces and Veterans

May 26, 2008
(Washington, DC)  --  Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz made the following Memorial Day 2008 statement in recognition of the service and achievements of women in the armed services and veterans:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1054, to honor the service and achievements of women in the Armed Forces and female veterans. I want to thank my colleague and good friend, Chairwoman Susan Davis, for sponsoring this resolution.

Next Monday, we will observe Memorial Day, which honors the brave men and women who have courageously served and died in uniform. Women have voluntarily served in support of U.S. military efforts since the Revolutionary War as nurses, cooks and laundresses. Now, women have risen through the ranks and occupy the roles of generals, commanders, pilots, and drill sergeants.

American women have served this country selflessly and with great courage. Today, I recognize the nearly 800,000 women who have served and the hundreds who have been killed or taken prisoner of war. Their service demonstrates that women are fully capable and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their country. They are an example to all women and men who will follow in their footsteps.

# # #