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Managing America: Recognition

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Week Ending May 25, 2006

H.RES.171 Honoring the Marquis de Lafayette on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of his birth.

The name Marquis de Lafayette is a short version for Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Gilbert Du Motier and was carried from his birth on September 6, 1757, through the French Revolution to a lengthy tour of the US where his enthusiasm about the country built affectionate relationships to the extent that many US towns are named after him.

He was also a brilliant military strategist and France’s relationship with America was further gelled by his presence.

More resolution below….

Sponsor:  Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO-4^th)

Vote: Passed House by voice vote May 2007

Cost to the taxpayers: No discernible cost.

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MORE INFORMATION

Whereas Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert Du Motier, commonly known as the Marquis de Lafayette, was born on September 6, 1757, and occupies a considerable place in the history of the United States;

Whereas Lafayette was a man of considerable military skill who expressed sympathy for American revolutionary fighters, decided to aid colonists in their struggle for independence, and was voted by Congress the rank and commission of major general in the Continental Army;

Whereas Lafayette's military service was invaluable to General George Washington during many Revolutionary War battles, earning him the title of `the soldier's friend';

Whereas Lafayette's strategic thinking, military skill, and dedication as a general officer serve as a model for present day American military officers;

Whereas Congress appropriated awards and honors in honor of Lafayette's service to the American people, including the commissioning of a portrait that hangs in the House Chamber;

Whereas because of Lafayette's strong belief in freedom, he advocated the abolition of slavery in the Americas, favored equal legal rights for religious minorities in France, and became a prominent figure in the French Revolution;

Whereas, in 1824, at the invitation of President Monroe, Lafayette embarked upon a triumphant, year-long tour of all 25 States of the then-United States, during which he became the first foreign dignitary to address a joint session of Congress and visited many Masonic bodies;

Whereas because of America's affection for Lafayette, many United States cities, towns, and counties have been named for him;

Whereas Lafayette symbolizes the assistance America received from Europe in the struggle for independence;

Whereas when the United States aided France during the world wars of 1917-1918 and 1941-1945, it was because of shared values of democracy and human rights and because of the deep and long lasting friendship rooted in Lafayette's service to the United States;

Whereas the bond between the United States and France continues to this day; and

Whereas the long-standing military alliance between the United States and France is a cornerstone of NATO and a critical force in our global partnerships. Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives--

(1) honors Marquis de Lafayette on the 250th anniversary of his birth; and

(2) urges the cadets of the United States military academies and military officers participating in various professional military education courses to study Lafayette's impact on the creation of the United States and on the United States military.

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