Floor SpeechCeremonial2024-12-17

COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY

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Context

On 2024-12-17, Representative Elise M. Stefanik (R-NY-21) delivered a floor speech titled "COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered the environment, defense.

Full Text

COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1284] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the 10th Mountain Division. On November 6, 1944, during the height of America's involvement in World War II, the 10th Mountain Division was activated to master mountain and winter warfare in order to prepare themselves for operations in some of the world's most unforgiving climates and terrains. After rigorous training in the Colorado Rockies, these brave soldiers made their mark during the Italian Campaign where they seized German positions on Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere and broke through the German mountain defenses into the Po River Valley. During nearly five months of intense ground combat in Italy, the 10th Mountain Division fought against 100,000 German troops, effectively defeating five German divisions and drawing enemy forces away from other theaters. Their success in these critical battles contributed to the eventual liberation of Italy and showcased the effectiveness of specialized warfare in extreme conditions. Following World War II, the division was reactivated in 1985 at Fort Drum in Upstate New York, which the unit has since called home. The North Country's austere environment and cold winters were chosen to host the newly reactivated light infantry division to ensure it was ready to fight and win in every environment. Between 1984 and 2001, 10th Mountain Division soldiers deployed around the world, from supporting Operation Desert Storm in the Middle East to providing disaster relief in Florida after Hurricane Andrew, the 10th Mountain Division's commitment to service never wavered. In 2001, the 10th Mountain Division provided the first conventional combat forces to respond to the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States. Since that first deployment in support of the Global War on Terror, the 10th Mountain Division has become the most deployed unit in the United States Army. The 10th Mountain Division has a proven and unique ability to adapt to rapidly changing combat environments. Whether operating in the steep, high-altitude terrain of Afghanistan or conducting urban operations in Iraq, 10th Mountain Division soldiers have consistently demonstrated that they are always able to innovate to meet the demands of the mission. Their dedication, skill, and professionalism have been vital in the fight against terrorism, defending American interests and promoting stability in some of the world's most volatile regions. The 10th Mountain Division has set a high standard for service, exemplifying leadership, resilience, and innovation. Because of this the 10th Mountain Division is now at the forefront of Army modernization efforts and 10th Mountain Division soldiers are closing the Army's most critical capability gaps including developing solutions for counter-drone, drone, and electronic warfare problems. Over the last 40 years, the 10th Mountain Division has integrated itself into the North Country community, where soldiers and their families form a strong network of support that strengthens the entire force. As we reflect on the division's distinguished history, we must also honor the sacrifices made by their families, who stand alongside their soldiers every step of the way. On behalf of New York's 21st district, we commemorate the 10th Mountain Division's 80th year and will honor its past by ensuring a strong future for the 10th Mountain Division and for all who serve in our Armed Forces. Climb to Glory. ____________________

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COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1284] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMEMORATING THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the 10th Mountain Division. On November 6, 1944, during the height of America's involvement in World War II, the 10th Mountain Division was activated to master mountain and winter warfare in order to prepare themselves for operations in some of the world's most unforgiving climates and terrains. After rigorous training in the Colorado Rockies, these brave soldiers made their mark during the Italian Campaign where they seized German positions on Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere and broke through the German mountain defenses into the Po River Valley. During nearly five months of intense ground combat in Italy, the 10th Mountain Division fought against 100,000 German troops, effectively defeating five German divisions and drawing enemy forces away from other theaters. Their success in these critical battles contributed to the eventual liberation of Italy and showcased the effectiveness of specialized warfare in extreme conditions. Following World War II, the division was reactivated in 1985 at Fort Drum in Upstate New York, which the unit has since called home. The North Country's austere environment and cold winters were chosen to host the newly reactivated light infantry division to ensure it was ready to fight and win in every environment. Between 1984 and 2001, 10th Mountain Division soldiers deployed around the world, from supporting Operation Desert Storm in the Middle East to providing disaster relief in Florida after Hurricane Andrew, the 10th Mountain Division's commitment to service never wavered. In 2001, the 10th Mountain Division provided the first conventional combat forces to respond to the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States. Since that first deployment in support of the Global War on Terror, the 10th Mountain Division has become the most deployed unit in the United States Army. The 10th Mountain Division has a proven and unique ability to adapt to rapidly changing combat environments. Whether operating in the steep, high-altitude terrain of Afghanistan or conducting urban operations in Iraq, 10th Mountain Division soldiers have consistently demonstrated that they are always able to innovate to meet the demands of the mission. Their dedication, skill, and professionalism have been vital in the fight against terrorism, defending American interests and promoting stability in some of the world's most volatile regions. The 10th Mountain Division has set a high standard for service, exemplifying leadership, resilience, and innovation. Because of this the 10th Mountain Division is now at the forefront of Army modernization efforts and 10th Mountain Division soldiers are closing the Army's most critical capability gaps including developing solutions for counter-drone, drone, and electronic warfare problems. Over the last 40 years, the 10th Mountain Division has integrated itself into the North Country community, where soldiers and their families form a strong network of support that strengthens the entire force. As we reflect on the division's distinguished history, we must also honor the sacrifices made by their families, who stand alongside their soldiers every step of the way. On behalf of New York's 21st district, we commemorate the 10th Mountain Division's 80th year and will honor its past by ensuring a strong future for the 10th Mountain Division and for all who serve in our Armed Forces. Climb to Glory. ____________________