WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole made the following statement about the ceremony for the permanent display at the visitor's center for the USS Oklahoma.
  

"I am very disappointed that I was not able to attend the ceremony to dedicate the permanent display for the USS Oklahoma. It would have been a great honor to be with the men who served on this battleship on the anniversary of Pearl Harbor. But, I consider voting the most important part of my job and believe it would be inexcusable to miss the vote on the 9/11 Commission Implementation Act," Congressman Cole said.

"As we prepare to honor the sailors, soldiers and marines who died 63 years ago at Pearl Harbor, I am constantly reminded of the sacrifices the brave men and women of our armed forces are making to keep America free today.  It is a great source of pride for me to reflect that our nation liberated millions after Pearl Harbor and today we seek to eradicate terrorism and spread liberty to oppressed peoples who have never known freedom."

"The establishment of this display is an important first step in creating a more elaborate memorial for the USS Oklahoma. While this is a great victory for the many survivors who are working to make a permanent memorial a reality, there are still more obstacles to overcome."

"I will continue to work with the survivors and the National Park Service to create a permanent memorial at Ford Island for the USS Oklahoma. Over 400 crewmembers lost their lives on the USS Oklahoma. Hopefully one day in the near future a permanent memorial will be built to honor their service and sacrifice," Congressman Cole said.

     A staff member from Congressman Cole's office will be reading a letter from Congressman Cole at the ceremony this evening.