RECOGNIZING THE EXTRAORDINARY EFFORTS OF THREE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN FROM ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS; Congressional Record Vol. 166, No. 28
(House of Representatives - February 11, 2020)
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From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE EXTRAORDINARY EFFORTS OF THREE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN
FROM ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from
Illinois (Mrs. Bustos) for 5 minutes.
Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we celebrate Black History
Month across our Nation. And I want to recognize the extraordinary
efforts of three African American women from Rockford, Illinois, who
have honorably served three separate branches of our Armed Forces. Our
Nation is indebted to them.
Later this week, the stories of Margaret Patricia Whelcher, Lana
McCants, and Milana Herman will be displayed to the public at the
Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum in Rockford, Illinois.
Their contributions to our country have been chronicled by local
students from Harlem High School as part of the annual Harlem Veterans
Project, and they have conducted interviews, shot videos, and have
photographs and more.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to bring attention to
their sacrifices and thank them for their service today.
Margaret Patricia Whelcher, she served in the United States Air Force
from 1988 to 1991 and achieved the rank of senior airman.
Lana McCants, she served in the United States Navy from 1991 to 1997
and achieved the rank of operation specialist 3rd class.
Milana Herman served in the United States Army from 1989 to 1994 and
achieved the rank of staff sergeant.
In addition to their distinguished military service, these veterans
have worked to better our community. Lana is an active member of the
American Legion Post 340, while Margaret and Milana routinely
participate in local stand-downs, where they offer a variety of support
services for at-risk veterans.
I am proud to see them represent our community with such distinction
and such honor. Their selfless commitment to country and community sets
a strong example for the leaders of tomorrow. It is crucial that their
inspirational stories are spread far and wide.
That is why I applaud the work of those students participating in the
Harlem Veterans Project. These students have sought to build a unique
bond with members of the community and raise the voices of those around
them.
Institutions like the Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum in Rockford,
which will feature these incredible women, tell the stories of so many
who have made an immense impact on the lives of those across our
region. It is only fitting that the stories of Margaret, Lana, and
Milana will be displayed with the rest of them.
We must never forget those who paved the path before us. Stories like
theirs make up the very fabric of our Nation. They should be cherished
and celebrated.
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