[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 69 (Thursday, May 22, 1997)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1024] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] COMMEMORATING DAY OF PORTUGAL ______ HON. BARBARA B. KENNELLY of connecticut in the house of representatives Thursday, May 22, 1997 Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the Day of Portugal celebrations taking place in the First Congressional District of Connecticut and throughout the world. Every year on June 10, the date of the birth of Portugal's greatest poet, Luis de Camoes, who lived from 1524 to 1580, people of Portuguese descent around the world honor their heritage on Day of Portugal. It is a time to pause and reflect on the many achievements of that great nation over the centuries and to celebrate the strong friendship between the United States and Portugal. Thousands of Connecticut residents are proud of their Portuguese heritage and share their cultural traditions with their neighbors and communities in which they live. The example of family unity, pursuit of education and respect for the elderly set by the Portuguese are profound lessons for all of us. Many Portuguese-Americans have contributed significantly to the development of the United States, including Supreme Court Justice Benjamin Cardozo, navigator Pedro Cabrillo, and Marine Corp band director John Philip Sousa. As one of the founding members of NATO, Portugal is a highly valued ally and close friend. Portugal is a vital link of security for Europe and the Mediterranean Sea, and a longtime host of the United States Air Force base on Lajes, Terceira, and Azores. Additionally, trade between our two nations is active and continues to grow. I congratulate the organizations from the First Congressional District that are dedicated to promoting Portuguese cultural heritage and expanding educational opportunities throughout the State of Connecticut: the Holy Ghost Portuguese Society, Our Lady of Fatima Church and School, the Portuguese Club of Hartford, and the Portuguese Foundation of Connecticut. I support the efforts to expand the opportunities for cultural and trade exchanges between the United States and Portugual and the continuation of this historical relationship. ____________________