And for others. it has been a physicial journey to escape the cruelty and injustice of discrimination practiced in many nations. Statehood did not end the challenges faced by the hardy and determined pioneers in Israel. The State of Israel. attacked by its neighbors. confronted with a barren land. burdened with economic and political problems. and faced with the Herculean task of forging a refugee populace into a unified and dynamic citizenry. has not only survived. but has thrived as no nation has done in the history of the world. Mr. Speaker. throughout the brief history of the State of Israel it has been a proud distinction for the United States to be called Israels friend.