National Association of American Veterans, Inc. (NAAV) Attends Congressional Luncheon Celebrating Passage of HR 1179 on December 6, 2022, at the U.S. Capitol, Washington, DC
On Tuesday, December 6, 2022, the National Association of American Veterans, Inc. (NAAV) Constance A. Burn, president and chief executive officer was a participant at the Congressional Luncheon celebrating the Passage of HR 1179 Iran Hostages Congressional Gold Medal Act honoring the former hostages in Iran with a Congressional Gold Medal at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, Washington, D.C. Attending the Congressional Luncheon were several former hostages and families of ones that are no longer living. The meeting was hosted by U.S. Representative Tom Suozzi and U.S. Representative Don Bacon, Lead Republican Honorary Host. The Keynote Address was presented by Brock Pierce, Chairman, Commission 52 who was instrumental in introducing the bill before U.S. Representatives Tom Suozzi and Don Bacon. The U.S. Representatives Suozzi and Bacon thank the American hostages for their sacrifices made, and the forbearance shown across a total of 444 days. “The bravery and sacrifice made by U.S. Embassy workers who were held against their will must be honored…” “…We can never forget their sacrifice and their never-ending will to uphold the values our country holds so dear.” “America will always stand for freedom, individual liberty, and basic human rights.” “… For 444 days, these American had to endure unbearable physical and psychological torture by Iranian militants that do not share the same values as our great nation. In the face of evil, they stood tall, and we must honor their courage and sacrifice.”
On November 4, 1979, fifty-two Americans were taken hostage from the U.S. Embassy in Iran by militant supporters of the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in violation of international law. For the next 444 days, they were subjected to intense physical and psychological torture, including mock executions, beatings, solitary confinement, and inhospitable living conditions.
Throughout their ordeal, the hostages showed unfathomable resilience, strength, and courage. Despite abuses designed to break their spirits and faith in the United States, they stood resolute, and refused to denounce or sign fraudulent statements condemning the United States.
The more than fourteen-month nightmare the hostages endured inspired unity in the American people, who hoped and prayed for their safe return. Thirty (30) of the original hostages are still alive, and many are still suffering the lasting effects of the trauma from their tribulation. The Iran Hostages Congressional Medal act would honor their bravery, sacrifice, and outstanding service to the United States. For more information contact The Friedlander Group at email: Communications@thefriedlandergroup.com.
By
Constance A. Burns
President and CEO
NAAV, Inc.
