Amata Recognizes ANZAC Day
Washington, D.C. – Wednesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata, submitted the following statement into the Congressional Record in recognition of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) Day
Congresswoman Aumua Amata and the New Zealand Ambassador to the United States, Rt. Honorable Mike Moore
"Mr. Speaker, Saturday is a special day because it commemorates the 100th Anniversary of ANZAC Day.
First held on April 25, 1916, ANZAC Day was originally dedicated to commemorating those Australian and New Zealand forces that fought in the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I.
Today, ANZAC Day is set aside to recognize all Australian and New Zealand forces who have served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations and the contribution and suffering of all those who have served. We call ours Veteran's Day.
As the Representative from American Samoa, the U.S. Territory that is geographically closest to New Zealand and the third closest to Australia; I am proud to recognize the servicemen and women from our partners in the region.
The long standing relationship between the United States and our partners in the South Pacific cannot be understated. Whenever we have found ourselves standing to defend the spirit of freedom and democracy around the globe, we have always been able to rely upon our friends in New Zealand and Australia to be standing right beside us.
Our shared ideals and hopes for the planet ensure that our bond is strong and lasting, and I want to recognize the service men and women of Australia and New Zealand for the sacrifices they have made to uphold these common traits.
Mr. Speaker, I ask all Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the sacrifices and dedication of the service members of our friends in Australia and New Zealand."
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