May 20, 2008 — Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) made the following comments today regarding H. Res. 986, legislation recognizing the courage and sacrifice of those who were held as prisoners of war (POWs) during the Vietnam War and calling for a full accounting of the 1,729 members of the Armed Forces who remain unaccounted for from the Vietnam conflict.  Rep. Sam Johnson (R-TX), honored in the Resolution, was among those prisoners released 35 years ago as part of Operation Homecoming, and returned home after serving nearly seven years as a prisoner in Vietnam.

“Our nation owes a debt of gratitude and honor that can never be repaid to the noble veterans who suffered in horrific conditions as prisoners during the Vietnam War."  Franks stated. “No words can do justice to the courage and valor of American soldiers whose patriotism and dedication to the cause of freedom never wavered in crucibles of human suffering that most of us will never be able to comprehend. 

“Sam Johnson was among those rescued and brought home through Operation Homecoming, having endured unthinkable beatings, torture, and mistreatment with such resolve and courage that the enemy came to know him as a diehard resister.  Upon returning to a country that did not recognize the nobility of the sacrifice made by him and his comrades, he went on to give himself further to the service of his country within the United States Congress. He is a true American hero and patriot whose legacy will continue to inspire and move the hearts of all who follow him, for generations to come.

“Today we acknowledged the patriotism and faithfulness in suffering of those courageous souls who sacrificed so much and who represent the essence of all that is best in America.”