[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 14, 2011)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1083] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] DIA DE PORTUGAL RECOGNITION ______ HON. DENNIS A. CARDOZA of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 14, 2011 Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleagues Mr. Costa of California, Mr. McGovern of Massachusetts, and Mr. Cicilline of Rhode Island to recognize Dia de Portugal, and reiterate the strong bond between the United States and Portugal. Celebrated around the world on June 10th, Dia de Portugal recognizes the magnificent heritage of the Portuguese people and their descendents. Contributing to the strong ties between the United States and Portugal are the sizable Portuguese communities in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, California, and Hawaii. The latest census estimates that 1.3 million individuals living in the United States are of Portuguese ancestry. There are also about 20,000 Americans living in Portugal. A large percentage of Portuguese-Americans are descendents of immigrants who came from the Azores in the late 1950's after the islands experienced several volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, leaving many without homes. Thousands of victims were in need of aid, and the United States, in a gesture of international goodwill, allocated visas to the people of the Azores to find work and rebuild their lives in America. Since the Azores are known for their rich soil and temperate climate, many of the Portuguese refugees settled in regions of the United States that supported agriculture and dairy, such as the San Joaquin Valley in Central California. Many other Portuguese from the Azores settled in parts of the nation with burgeoning fishing industries, particularly in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York where they continued to diversify and contribute to the nation's economy and common heritage. Modern day Portugal has been an integral member of the European Union (EU) and is a strong proponent of European integration. While Portugal held the presidency of the EU Council for the third time during the latter half of 2007, Portugal oversaw the signing of a new EU reform treaty, staged EU summits with Russia, India, and China, and held a second EU-Africa summit. Furthermore, Portugal is a founding member of NATO and continues to be an active member of the alliance. Lastly, the defense relationship between the United States and Portugal is excellent, centered on the 1995 Agreement on Cooperation and Defense (ACD). For 50 years, Lajes Air Base in the Azores has played an important role in supporting U.S. military aircraft. Past missions have engaged in counter-terrorism and humanitarian efforts, including operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Portugal often emphasizes its support for strong European ties with the United States, particularly on defense and security issues. Portugal sees its role as host of NATO's ``Joint Command Lisbon,'' located near Lisbon, as an important sign of alliance interest in transatlantic security issues. Mr. Speaker, we celebrate all the accomplishments of the Portuguese and Portuguese Americans on this occasion, and wish everyone celebrating worldwide a joyous Dia de Portugal. ____________________