FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts: Adam Benson (Dingell) 202-225-4071, Dave Pollock (Levin) 202-228-3685, Brad Carroll (Stabenow) 202-224-1437

July 11, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

Washington, DC

Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) and U.S. Senators Carl Levin (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) have introduced legislation that would designate the River Raisin battlefield site a unit of the National Park System. The site, located in Monroe, Michigan, was the scene of one of the bloodiest battles of the War of 1812. Dingell, Levin and Stabenow hope to get the bill signed into law before the end of the 110th Congress.

"We have made incredible progress thus far, and everyone who has come to see the Battlefield understands why our people are excited about this project," Dingell said. "The people of Monroe have made a real investment in time and energy to restore and honor this hallowed ground where so many Americans shed their blood in defense of our fledgling country. With every new day, we see even more value in this special place and I think the National Park Service will too."

Senator Levin said: "The River Raisin Battlefield site is a critical part of our nation's history and deserves to be included in our National Park System. I share the enthusiasm of the people of Monroe and am proud to be part of this effort to recognize an important piece of our heritage."

Senator Stabenow said: "The River Raisin Battlefield is one of our state's most valuable landmarks, honoring the brave troops who sacrificed their lives in defense of our country, almost 200 years ago. I am proud to work to ensure this historical treasure becomes a site of our National Park System and is preserved for future generations to come."

The past year has been spent restoring the River Raisin Battlefield to the way it looked 196 years ago. It has been no easy task - considering the site developed into a paper mill during the turn of the last century. But demolition crews brought down the smokestacks and blighted paper mills and archeologists and historians have been shedding new light on this pivotal moment in American history, which proved to be a turning point in the war often referred to as ?America's Second Revolutionary War.'

Out of nearly 1,000 American troops, only 33 escaped death or capture. This bloody event, arguably the largest land engagement of the war, gave birth to the emotional rallying cry "Remember the Raisin," which spurred the American forces on to victory at the Battle of the Thames nine months later, thereby ending the War.

Congressman Dingell and the senators have helped bring more than $1.5 million in grant money to help pay for the restoration effort. Former Monroe Mayor C.D. "Al" Cappuccilli, current Mayor Mark Worrell, Governor Jennifer Granholm, State Senator Randy Richardville and State Representative Kate Ebli have also provided important support for the project, which could be ready for the public in time for the War of 1812's 200th anniversary.