Supporting the United States Paralympics, honoring the Paralympic athletes, and for other purposes.

Whereas today there are more than 21 million Americans with a physical disability;

Whereas in the past few years thousands of military personnel have sustained serious injuries during active duty;

Whereas research shows that daily physical activity enhances self-esteem and peer relationships, and results in increased achievement, better overall health, and a higher quality of life;

Whereas United States Paralympics, a division of the United States Olympic Committee, is dedicated to becoming the world leader in the Paralympic sports movement, and promoting excellence in the lives of people with physical disabilities;

Whereas since its formation in 2001, United States Paralympics has been inspiring Americans to achieve their dreams;

Whereas United States Paralympics makes a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals with a physical disability every day;

Whereas United States Paralympic athletes have been competing in the Paralympic Games since 1960;

Whereas the athletes in the Paralympic Games are the very best at their sports, devote countless hours to training, and receive support from their families, schools, and communities;

Whereas the United States Paralympics Team brought home a total of 13 medals, including 4 gold medals, from the 2010 Paralympic Winter games in Vancouver; and

Whereas the United States Paralympics Team won gold medals in Ice Hockey (Ice Sledge Hockey), Women’s Super Combined (Sitting), Women’s Downhill (Sitting), and Women’s Giant Slalom (Sitting): Now, therefore, be it