5th Birthday and Beyond

Floor Speech

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to commemorate the United States' role in preventing the death of millions of children under the age of five across the world. In a country where talk of a child's fifth birthday elicits happy memories of time spent with family and friends, we too often forget that in regions across the globe, many children never make it to their fifth birthday. Thanks to the support and generosity of the American people, U.S. aid programs have helped cut the number of child deaths, under the age of five, in half since 1990.

The devastating and deadly effects of diseases like pneumonia, measles and malaria have been largely curbed across the globe with the support of Americans. These monumental advances are allowing millions more children to live the healthy, happy childhood that all kids deserve. It is important we recognize these advancements and honor the dedication and work of those that have made them possible. We must also continue to support efforts to improve children's lives around the world and redouble our efforts and commitment to children's health. It is my sincere hope the progress achieved by 5th Birthday and Beyond continues, and we can make this a world where no child unnecessarily suffers from, or ultimately succumbs to, a preventable or treatable illness.

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