- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 19, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. JOE WILSON
of south carolina
in the house of representatives
Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following proclamation on behalf of the National Garden Club, and their President Donna Donnelly of South Carolina, in honor of Memorial Day. I especially appreciate the significance of Garden Club as my mother, Wray Wilson, was an active member of the Garden Club of Charleston and was Garden Editor of The News and Courier.
Whereas, on July 4, 1776, the United States of America was
founded upon the enduring principles of liberty, self-
governance, and the inherent dignity of all people; and
Whereas, for 250 years, the American nation has stood as a
beacon of hope, inspiring free peoples around the world to
pursue democracy, justice, and peace; and
Whereas the alliance between the United States of America
and the French Republic is among the oldest and most
cherished in modern history, forged in the cause of
independence and strengthened in the shared defense of
freedom; and
Whereas, during the Second World War, the soil of Normandy
became hallowed ground through the courageous sacrifice of
American servicemen who crossed an ocean to liberate Europe
from tyranny; and
Whereas, on June 6, 1944, the Allied forces, including
brave Americans, embarked upon the largest amphibious
invasion in history, forever altering the course of the war
and ensuring the restoration of liberty to the continent; and
Whereas the Normandy American Cemetery stands as a solemn
testament to the valor, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of
those who gave their lives in service to a cause greater than
themselves; and
Whereas, Memorial Day in the United States is a sacred
occasion to remember and honor those who made the ultimate
sacrifice in defense of our freedoms, both at home and
abroad; and
Whereas the year 2026 marks the Semiquincentennial of the
United States, a moment to reflect upon our shared history,
reaffirm our principles, and honor the enduring bonds of
friendship with our allies;
Now, therefore, I, Joe Wilson, Member of Congress of the
United States and a member of the House Armed Services
Committee, do hereby offer this proclamation in solemn
tribute:
That on this hallowed ground at Omaha Beach, we honor not
only the fallen heroes of June 6, 1944, but all those who
have borne the burden of defending liberty across
generations;
That we express, with profound gratitude, the enduring
friendship between the people of the United States and the
people of France, whose shared sacrifices have secured peace
and freedom for countless millions;
That as we commemorate 250 years of American independence,
we recommit ourselves to the ideals for which these brave
souls fought and died—freedom, justice, and the unyielding
pursuit of peace;
And that we pledge to carry forward this sacred legacy,
ensuring that the bonds of alliance between our nations
remain strong, and that the sacrifices of the past shall
never be forgotten.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand on this
Memorial Day, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-
six.