November 10, 1999

Mr. Speaker, on the eve of Veterans Day -- the day we set aside to honor our nations' veterans -- I rise in support of H.Res. 41, a measure honoring women veterans and their contributions to the allied victory in World War II.

In 1941, Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers introduced H.R. 4906, the bill that established the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC). Although faced with mounting opposition in the House, the bill was signed into law on May 15, 1942 as Public Law 77- 554.

Two months later, similar legislation was introduced and signed into law establishing the Navy Women's Reserve (WAVES) and the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. Four months later, the Coast Guard Women's Reserve was established.

Women answered the call to duty without hesitation. The first group of 400 white and 40 black women were selected from among 30,000 applicants. They came from every state and a variety of circumstances. They all had two things in common -- they had all volunteered and they had a desire to serve their nation.

Just as their male counterparts, they had put their lives, their goals, and their dreams -- on hold to serve their country. By the end of World War II, some 400,000 women had served in the military.

There can be little doubt that these brave women performed a valuable role to the war effort during World War II. Historical documents are full of testimonials attesting to the excellence of women's contributions, disciplined character and their overall positive effect on the armed services. It is appropriate that we take this time to honor these brave women who served this nation with honor during World War II.

I also commend the sponsor of this measure, my colleague from California, Loretta Sanchez. I thank and commend her for her leadership on this important measure recognizing the critically important contributions made by our nation's women veterans in World War II.