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Mrs. HALVORSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 278, a resolution honoring the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Sons and Daughters in Touch.
For the last two decades, this organization has provided support to those sons and daughters who lost a parent fighting during the Vietnam War. During the war in Southeast Asia, we lost over 58,000 men and women in uniform; of those, it is estimated that more than one-third were fathers. That means that more than 20,000 children were lost without a father to help raise them. This means that thousands of children missed out on the memories of growing up with a parent or, in some cases, even the opportunity to meet them.
Founded by a son who helped bury his father after being shot down over Vietnam, Sons and Daughters in Touch was founded by Tony Cordero, who simply wanted to find others like him who had lost a parent in battle. Working with members of other organizations that connected and supported those left behind at home, Tony worked to create an organization that continues to benefit 3,000 people every day.
Next Monday, those of us here will return home to honor the lives of those who sacrificed everything to keep our country safe. Today, we can honor those who were left waiting. Today, we can honor those who fought the battle of moving on without that loved one by their side. I ask my colleagues to stand here with me as we stand up for our military families. I ask my colleagues to stand with me and with those who have joined us today as we honor the loss and sacrifice they have endured. I ask that my colleagues join me in supporting H. Con. Res 278, honoring the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Sons and Daughters in Touch.
I would also like to take a moment to recognize Chairman Filner for his dedication and hard work on behalf of our veterans, as well as for his help in bringing this resolution to the floor in such a timely manner.
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