Russian Veterans' Visit- 06.24.2004

Jewish Week coverage

Congressional Record statement


NY Times Profile: FSU veterans association (October 20, 2002)

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Congressional Record

In Honor of the American Association of Invalids and Veterans of World War II from the Former USSR

Speech of the Hon. Jerrold Nadler of New York In the House of Representatives

Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the American Association of Invalids and Veterans of World War II from the former USSR. As members of the Russian army, this group fiercely fought German occupation from 1941 to 1945, and after fighting post-war anti-Semitism in their own country, they immigrated to the New York City area. Tuesday marked the 63rd anniversary of Germany's invasion of the former Soviet Union. Today, I am pleased to welcome them to Washington D.C. as they visit the World War II Memorial, and to honor their contribution in fighting for peace and liberty in Europe. 

The group of Russian Veterans I honor today fought in many battles along the Russian front in World War II, and in major battles in Odessa, Moscow, and Stalingrad. As we recently honored millions of brave Americans with the opening of the World War II Memorial, I also recognize this group of veterans for their contribution to the Allied victory. Through their efforts in the Russian armed forces, these soldiers played an important role in defeating the Nazis--a victory which they celebrated in the streets of Berlin alongside American soldiers. 

Their common experiences in the war, in its aftermath, and as immigrants to the United States bind them deeply to one another. As The New York Times explained, "As Jews who shared both the deprivations of a brutal war against Hitler's forces and postwar anti-Semitism under a Soviet system they had risked their lives to preserve, their allegiance is not to the former Soviet Union, nor to the Red Army, nor even to Mother Russia, but to one another." Though the association began in 1995 with only 30 veterans, it now boasts 3,000 members in New York. 

For their patriotism, for their commitment to freedom and democracy in Europe, and for their unyielding commitment to each other, it is my privilege to honor the American Association of Invalids and Veterans of World War II from the former USSR, and to warmly welcome them to Washington D.C.