Schiff Salutes D-Day Veterans

WASHINGTON, DC - (June 4, 2004) Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA) released the following statement today in advance of Sunday's 60th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy, France in World War II:

"When tens of thousands of American and other Allied troops began their assault on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, they set a standard for courage and sacrifice that would last for generations. The beginning of the liberation of Europe from the despotism of the Third Reich cost the Allies almost 10,000 lives, 6,600 of those American.

"According to 2001 statistics, California is home to 476,000 WWII veterans. Of the nation's living 5,039,000, it is estimated that 1,100 die each day. We are proud of their service during those tumultuous years. They have endowed younger generations with the promises of liberty and prosperity made at the founding of our country."

Over Memorial Day weekend, Congressman Schiff attended the rededication of the 52-year-old Pasadena World War II Memorial, which features a monument, flag pole and new V-shaped rose garden symbolizing "Victory." He also spoke to an audience of veterans of present and past wars at the East Pasadena American Legion Post 280, and presided over the naming of the Burbank downtown post office in honor of Bob Hope, who entertained generations of American service members throughout the world in many 20th Century conflicts, including WWII.

Congressman Schiff is the co-founder of the Democratic Study Group on National Security and a member of both the House Judiciary and International Relations committees. He represents California's 29th Congressional District, including the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, East Pasadena, East San Gabriel, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.